Percent of Heart Failure Patients Given an Evaluation of Left Ventricular Systolic (LVS) Function

What the graph is saying

For this measure, higher percentages are better. The graph above shows that Woodwinds is consistent with the Minnesota average. HealthEast, St. Joseph's and St. John's are above the Minnesota average.

You can compare all hospitals' performance at the United States Department of Health & Human Services Hospital Compare web site. Its data will be slightly older than the data reflected on the HealthEast web site.

Why is this measure important?

The proper treatment for heart failure depends on what area of your heart is affected. An important test is to check how your heart is pumping, called an "evaluation of the left ventricular systolic function." It can tell your health care provider whether the left side of your heart is pumping properly. Other ways to check on how your heart is pumping include:

• Your medical history
• A physical examination
• Listening to your heart sounds
• Other tests as ordered by a physician (like an electrocardiogram, chest x-ray, blood work and an echocardiogram)

Description above from the United States Department of Health & Human Services Hospital Compare web site: www.hospitalcompare.hhs.gov

* The "Top U.S. Hospitals" represent the top 10% of all hospitals reporting information to Hospital Compare.