Arne Husselmann

Central University of Technology, South Africa

Title: The clinical impact of Echocardiography on patients in tertiary centres in South Africa

Biography

Arne Husselmann graduated in 2009 with a bachelor's degree in Clinical Technology, specializing in Cardiology, from the University of Technology – Free State. During her studies, she gained extensive exposure to a wide range of adult and pediatric cardiac pathologies.

Following graduation, she began her career as a Senior Cardiac Technologist in the Cardiology Department at Tygerberg Hospital. She later relocated to Dubai, further broadening her professional experience.

Upon returning to South Africa, Arne joined the Cardiology team at Christiaan Barnard Hospital in Cape Town, where she had the opportunity to work alongside some of the country’s leading cardiologists. It was during this time that she was inspired to pursue her long-standing dream of establishing her own practice.

The Louis Leipoldt Mediclinic became the foundation for her Mobile Echocardiogram Clinic, allowing her to bring specialized cardiac diagnostic services directly to patients and healthcare providers.

Abstract

Objective: This review aims to highlight the escalating burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) in South Africa and to underscore the significant clinical and economic impact of echocardiography in patient management, particularly within tertiary care settings.

Scope: The article synthesizes existing literature and local study findings to demonstrate the diagnostic and therapeutic value of echocardiography in the South African context, where CVDs are a leading cause of morbidity and mortality. It also addresses the challenges of access to echocardiography services and the crucial need for enhanced training.

Methods: This is a comprehensive review article, drawing upon published research, reports from health organizations (e.g., HSFSA, WHO), and specific studies conducted in South Africa, such as the University of Cape Town study on echocardiography's impact. The analysis focuses on the clinical utility, cost-effectiveness, and logistical barriers to widespread echocardiography implementation.

Results: CVDs are a major public health crisis in South Africa, second only to HIV/AIDS in mortality. Echocardiography has been shown to profoundly influence patient management, with one study indicating an impact on 84% of patient cases and significant clinical management changes in 56% of confirmed diagnoses. Despite this, a large majority of tertiary centers lack access to these services, primarily due to insufficient training. The financial implications of limited access and the potential cost savings through early echocardiography are substantial. The demand for this service and the need for training are critical.

Conclusion: Echocardiography offers a vital tool for improving patient outcomes and optimizing healthcare resource allocation in South Africa. Its significant impact necessitates urgent policy review to ensure wider availability in tertiary settings. Prioritizing comprehensive echocardiography training and certification for medical personnel, particularly within MMed curricula, is crucial for combating the rising burden of CVDs and enhancing the quality of care across the nation.