KePRO, Inc., located in Seven Hills, is the peer review organization for Ohio. Clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy of aspirin, beta-blockers, early reperfusion and ACE inhibitors. Aspirin should be given to all patients with AMI unless there is a significant history of intolerance. During the first few hours of infarction beta-blockers decrease myocardial oxygen demand and augment perfusion thus reducing the magnitude of infarction. Timely reperfusion - The use of thrombolytic therapy or coronary angioplasty during the first several hours after the onset of symptoms reduces mortality.
Earlier treatment improves survival by minimizing the extent of damage.
Optimal benefit is obtained if reperfusion is done in the first 4-6 hours. KePRO, Inc. is the peer review organization for Ohio. HCFA has selected national projects for quality improvement. This series of communications will assist you in understanding the Medicare projects and provide good care for your patients.