In 1999, approximately 700,000 procedures were performed in the U.S. alone. Many factors can influence the outcome of coronary artery bypass surgery. These include the patient's health before the procedure, the skill of the operating team and general after care. The states listed below offer consumers information about heart surgery outcomes through a cooperative quality improvement system. On-line Report Cards are intended for patients, families of patients who are considering coronary artery bypass surgery and health care providers.
Comparisons are visible on a single table.
If you do not see your state's listing, you may want to contact your state's health department and ask if and when this type of consumer health information will be made available. Consumers are cautioned to use this information only as a resource. Your primary care doctor and your cardiologist are your best advisors. Being an informed healthcare consumer will empower you to ask the right questions about how to get the best care for your heart. In order to minimize new blockage, patients should continue to reduce their risk factors for heart disease.