Victoria’s first Women’s Heart Clinic, established by Alfred Health in Melbourne, has supported more than 300 women since opening during the pandemic.
With referrals increasing by more than 40% in the last six months and forecasts of an increase in demand, the hospital will triple its capacity and appoint two more cardiologists by early next year.
According to the Heart Foundation approximately 20 women die each day of coronary heart disease, killing almost three times as many Australian women as breast cancer. Yet the general perception of heart disease is that it is a male disease.
The Alfred’s Women’s Heart Clinic was set up on the back of greater prevention of heart disease in women and addressing the service gap.
The clinic is staffed by specialists with particular interest and skill in female specific research and women-centred healthcare.
Victoria’s Premier Daniel Andrews said the clinic could hold its own with its other similarly-focused clinics worldwide.
Mary-Anne Thomas, Victoria’s Minister for Health, added that the clinic plays an important role in reducing the discrepancy in health outcomes for men and women in Victoria.
“Women often have poorer heart health outcomes than men, and that’s why we back services like this one – so all Victorian women can get the care they need to live longer, healthier and happier lives,” the Health Minister said.
More information about the Alfred Women’s Health Clinic and its services can be found here.
