Understanding EVA Bridge

Why Heart Attack Follow‑Up Matters

The Problem in Spain

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of death and hospitalization in Spain. Every year thousands of people suffer a heart attack or other heart‑related issues.

Numbers that Speak

• 73 % of high‑risk patients do not reach the LDL‑cholesterol targets set by guidelines.
• About 68 % stop taking their medication within the first year after a heart attack.
• Improving medication adherence by just 10 % could prevent roughly 8,700 deaths and save over 75 million euros for the health system.

What EVA Bridge Does

A Team‑Based Approach

EVA Bridge is a new care‑coordination model created by Daiichi Sankyo and backed by the Spanish Society for Healthcare Quality (SECA) and the Spanish Society of Health Directors (SEDISA). It links cardiology units with primary‑care teams so patients get continuous support after leaving the hospital.

Phases of Care

Phase 1 – In‑hospital & Discharge

During the stay, patients receive a clear explanation of their condition and a personalized roadmap for recovery.

Phase 2 – First Two Weeks

After discharge, the program activates intensive monitoring: face‑to‑face visits and proactive phone calls to answer questions, reinforce treatment adherence, and spot early warning signs.

Phase 3 – Months 2‑6

The focus shifts to stabilization. Key markers like LDL cholesterol are checked, therapies are adjusted, and health‑education sessions help prevent another event.

Phase 4 – Year‑Long Care

Starting at month 12, patients enter a chronic‑care phase with regular check‑ups from primary‑care doctors, nurses, and cardiologists to keep the condition under control.

How It Helps Patients

Better Cholesterol Control

By keeping a close eye on lipid levels and adjusting treatment when needed, more patients reach the recommended LDL goals.

Sticking to Medicines

Regular contact and education reduce the chance that someone will stop taking their pills, directly lowering the risk of another heart attack.

Saving Lives and Money

Improved adherence and better risk‑factor control translate into fewer complications, fewer hospital readmissions, and significant cost savings for the health system.

Who Made EVA Bridge Possible?

Hospitals Involved

Eight hospitals across Spain contributed their experience:

• Bellvitge University Hospital (Catalonia) – program coordinator
• Cruces University Hospital (Basque Country)
• Son Llàtzer University Hospital (Balearic Islands)
• La Candelaria University Hospital (Canary Islands)
• Valencia General Hospital (Valencian Community)
• Ferrol Hospital (Galicia)
• Costa del Sol Hospital (Andalusia)
• Fuenlabrada University Hospital (Madrid)

Support from Societies and Daiichi Sankyo

SECA and SEDISA provided expertise on quality and healthcare management, while Daiichi Sankyo supplied the resources and drive to launch the initiative.

Looking Ahead

EVA Bridge shows how structured coordination between hospital specialists and primary‑care teams can improve the lives of young and adult heart‑attack survivors. By focusing on clear steps, regular follow‑up, and patient education, the model aims to cut down repeat events, boost quality of life, and make the Spanish health system more efficient.

Conclusion

Heart attacks are a serious health challenge in Spain, but programs like EVA Bridge prove that better organization and teamwork can make a real difference. With continued support and expansion, more patients can stay on track with their treatment, keep their cholesterol in check, and enjoy healthier futures.

Source
Images Credit: www.diariodeibiza.es