[ANMCO Position paper: ANMCO States General 2024 - Role of cardiologists in the management of chronic cardiovascular diseases].

Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality globally and in Italy, with a growing burden exacerbated by aging populations and underdeveloped strategies for managing chronic cardiovascular conditions. This position paper, resulting from the 2024 ANMCO General Assembly, addresses the current state of cardiovascular chronicity management in Italy, highlighting critical gaps and proposing sustainable, integrative solutions. Despite improvements in acute cardiovascular care, the lack of structured post-acute management, insufficient adoption of secondary prevention protocols, limited access to innovative therapies, and a slow digital transition continue to hinder effective chronic care. The document stresses the pivotal role of cardiologists, not only in acute intervention but also in long-term care and secondary prevention, emphasizing the need for a multidisciplinary, multichannel healthcare model. The paper explores the potential of e-Health and artificial intelligence to revolutionize chronic disease management. It advocates for the widespread implementation of integrated care pathways, digital tools like electronic health records and telemedicine platforms, which together could enhance early detection, patient monitoring, and therapeutic adherence while reducing unnecessary hospitalizations. It also underscores the necessity of updating national and regional pharmaceutical policies to improve equitable access to disease-modifying therapies. Furthermore, the integration of palliative care in end-stage cardiovascular disease and the enhancement of post-acute care networks are deemed essential. Ultimately, the document advocates for a comprehensive systemic and cultural transformation - spearheaded by scientific societies such as ANMCO - where technological innovation, organizational reform, and patient-centered care align to ensure a sustainable and universally accessible healthcare system. This vision is consistent with the objectives of the PNRR, the 2030 Agenda, and, most importantly, the foundational principles of the Italian Constitution.