Heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) kill more than 800,000 Americans each year, accounting for 1 in every 3 deaths. CVD is the nation’s number one killer among both men and women and the leading cause of health disparities across the population.

Fortunately, we know that improving outcomes for people with or at risk for CVD is achievable. Million Hearts¬Æ is pleased to announce the Million Hearts¬Æ Hospitals & Health Systems Recognition Program, a program that recognizes institutions working to systematically improve the cardiovascular health of the population and communities they serve through the priority areas of (1) keeping people healthy, (2) optimizing care, (3) improving outcomes for priority populations, and (4) innovating for health. 

Eligible applicants include health systems with multiple hospitals, hospitals with and without ambulatory medical practices, and medical practices not affiliated with hospitals.

The Million Hearts® Hospitals & Health Systems Recognition Program is now open. Applications received by April 30, 2020, will be among the first to be considered and to be eligible for this designation. Applications will be reviewed and considered on a quarterly basis.

NACDD has been working collaboratively with CDC in the development of this program. Using recognition as a tool, chronic disease public health professionals will be better informed of the small set of high impact strategies needed to prevent heart attacks and strokes. We are excited about this launch and encourage our Members to help spread the word to hospitals and health systems in their communities, encourage them to apply, and to join us in promoting their commitments and outcomes.

For more information about the program, or to apply, visit hospitals.millionhearts.hhs.gov. Questions about the program should be directed to millionhearts@cdc.gov, with “Million Hearts¬Æ Hospitals & Health Systems” in the subject line.

Together, we can improve the cardiovascular health of the population, preventing heart attacks and strokes, through the use of cost-effective, proven strategies.