Scientific Bulletin: New Approach in Heart Failure Treatment
The Transition to the Era of Precision Medicine and Digitalization
The 2nd National Scientific Conference on Heart Failure, held in Ho Chi Minh City on December 13, focused on the strategic application of personalized medicine and digital transformation in disease management. The event brought together nearly 500 leading cardiology experts from both Vietnam and abroad.
Deputy Minister of Health Nguyễn Tri Thức stated that the management and treatment of heart failure are undergoing a fundamental shift. The approach is moving from a “one-size-fits-all” model to a more precise, individualized format, driven by data and modern technology.
Heart failure is recognized as the most significant challenge in cardiovascular diseases, not only due to its high morbidity and mortality rates but also because of the heavy burden on healthcare costs and severe reduction in patients’ quality of life.
Recent advancements in cardiology, particularly in 2025, have shown a strong trajectory toward precision medicine and the extensive integration of digital technologies. Artificial intelligence, big data, and remote monitoring systems are playing a crucial role in bridging the gap between specialized hospital care and community-based management. Through continuous updates of vital data, doctors can proactively predict risk events and intervene promptly, even when the patient is not hospitalized.
The Vietnam Heart Failure Sub-Association has made commendable efforts, including successful participation in the International Heart Failure Data Project. A significant milestone was the recognition of 10 Vietnamese cardiology centers, including facilities at the primary care level, as “Quality Care Centers” by the European Society of Cardiology (ESC).
To address the critical lack of continuity in patient monitoring after hospital discharge, the Deputy Minister strongly supported the proposal to establish a National Heart Failure Database. This database is planned to expand its scope to hundreds of medical facilities nationwide, providing accurate information essential for clinical practice, health management, policy planning, and personnel training.
Furthermore, the Ministry of Health is developing 12 specialized medical databases and will consider issuing nationally standardized guidelines for the diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic heart failure. The conference also underscored the importance of training, knowledge updates, and professional connectivity between primary healthcare and specialized levels to enhance the quality of patient care.
