HFpEF Diagnosis Using Integrated H2FPEF Scoring in Echocardiogram Reports.

BACKGROUND

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) accounts for a substantial and growing proportion of heart failure hospitalizations, yet diagnosis remains challenging due to the need for integrated clinical and echocardiographic assessment rather than a single definitive parameter.

PROJECT RATIONALE: Variability in interpreting echocardiographic findings leads to diagnostic uncertainty and delays in treatment. Embedding the H2FPEF score into echocardiogram reports may standardize assessment and improve recognition of HFpEF.

PROJECT SUMMARY: A quality improvement initiative at Griffin Hospital integrated H2FPEF scoring into echocardiogram reports for patients with suspected new acute heart failure and preserved left ventricular ejection fraction. Among 44 eligible patients, 29 had complete data for score calculation. The score supported HFpEF diagnosis in 17 patients and ruled it out in 5, improving diagnostic clarity. Guideline-directed medical therapy was initiated in most confirmed cases, demonstrating impact on management.

TAKE-HOME MESSAGE: Embedding H2FPEF scoring into routine echocardiography reporting is feasible and improves diagnostic consistency and treatment initiation in suspected HFpEF.