For years, the CV service line has been considered the growth engine for many hospitals. But maintaining progress is increasingly difficult as programs face greater competition and demand uncertainty in a market emphasizing population health. Amid declining inpatient volumes and the evolving demands of consumers—both patients and referring providers—program leaders can no longer rely on traditional growth tactics to succeed.

This research report and the accompanying implementation resources provide actionable strategies to help CV leaders develop and execute a principled growth strategy that aligns with the needs of their market and the capabilities of their program.

10 best practices to develop a sustainable CV growth strategy

Design the CV growth roadmap (pg. 15)

1. Align growth strategy with market needs
2. Hardwire a process for strategy development and execution

• Related resources:
• CV Program Development Resources
• CV Executive Steering Committee Governance Structure – Baptist Health Care
• TAVR Pro Forma – Baptist Health Care
• MitraClip Pro Forma – Baptist Health Care
• CV Services Site Audit and Redistribution Guide
• CV Consolidation Readiness Assessment

Increase market share through enhanced access (pg. 27)

3. Ensure timely, convenient access to services
4. Develop a high-value outreach strategy
5. Extend program reach through strategic partnerships

• Related resources:
• Outpatient Access Metrics Picklist
• Guide for Assembling the Accessible CV Network

Build an effective physician referral strategy (pg. 53)

6. Strengthen referring physician alignment
7. Streamline the referral process
8. Provide enhanced consult support

• Related resources:
• CV-PCP Service Agreement – PeaceHealth
• CV-PCP Service Agreement Compendium
• CV Telecardiology Protocols – Parkview Health
• CV Referral Guideline Compendium
• CV Specialist Partnerships: Collaborating with Hospitals and Primary Care

Attract patient consumers (pg. 75)

9. Engage self-directed CV patients
10. Encourage loyalty across the care continuum

• Related resources:
• Optimizing the Cardiovascular Patient Experience

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