PROTOCOLS & RECOMMENDATIONS
At the Virginia Cardiac Services Quality Initiative, we are committed to advancing the standards of cardiac healthcare across Virginia and beyond. This section of our website is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive and meticulously developed protocols and guidelines. These resources are designed to assist healthcare professionals in delivering consistent, high-quality cardiac care that is informed by the latest clinical evidence and best practices.
Explore Our Resources
Our protocols and guidelines cover a broad spectrum of cardiac care topics, each carefully crafted by experts in cardiology, cardiac surgery, and patient care management. Whether you are looking for innovative approaches to treatment, wanting to refine your existing practices, or seeking insights into complex clinical decisions, you'll find invaluable information here to guide you.
Tailored for Your Needs
We understand that each healthcare setting may have unique needs and challenges. That’s why our resources are designed to be adaptable:
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Customizable Protocols: While our protocols are based on robust clinical data and expert consensus, we encourage healthcare providers to modify them as needed to enhance patient care in their specific contexts.
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Up-to-Date Information: The field of cardiac care is ever-evolving. Our protocols are regularly reviewed and updated to reflect the latest research findings and technological advancements, ensuring you have access to the most current information.
Your Role in Shaping Cardiac Care
By utilizing these protocols and guidelines, you are joining a community of professionals dedicated to the highest standards of cardiac health services. Together, we can achieve better patient outcomes, reduce complications, and enhance the quality of life for those we serve.
Statewide Protocols
Your feedback is invaluable. We invite you to:
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Share Your Insights: If you have suggestions for improvements, or if there’s additional content you’d like to see, please let us know.
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Join Our Community: Participate in discussions, workshops, and forums to collaborate with other professionals dedicated to improving cardiac care.
Strategies for Change
"Strategies for Change" is a pivotal initiative by the Virginia Cardiac Services Quality Initiative (VCSQI) aimed at highlighting best practices in healthcare. This program fosters collaboration among providers, researchers, and policymakers to identify and implement evidence-based solutions that improve patient outcomes, reduce costs, and promote health equity. By focusing on real-world strategies that drive measurable change, this initiative empowers healthcare professionals to adopt innovative practices that advance the quality of care and optimize healthcare delivery across diverse populations. Join us in shaping the future of healthcare by learning, sharing, and implementing the best practices that make a lasting impact.
5:30-5:45 PM
Welcome and Highlights from the Board
Robert Lancey, MD, Sentara Norfolk
•Describe and assess recent achievements, initiatives, and the strategic direction of the Virginia Cardiac Services Quality Initiative (VCSQI) to understand its role in advancing cardiovascular care.
•Identify and evaluate key priorities and challenges in cardiac quality improvement, and propose strategies for addressing barriers within healthcare systems.
5:45-6:15 PM
Bridging the Gap: Patient Perspectives on Cardiac Care and Quality Improvement
Patient Panel Discussion
Special Guests:
Judy and Frank Smith, Melanie and Tim Johnson
Moderator: Sherri White
•Describe how patient and family experiences highlight gaps in communication, care coordination, and recovery support throughout the cardiac care continuum.
•Reflect on patient narratives to enhance cultural humility, empathy, and shared decision-making in clinical practice.
6:15-7:00 PM
Readmission Reduction: A Team Sport
Robbin Shifflett, RN and Judy Smith, RN, University of Virginia
December 4, 2025
Strengthen Partnerships with Patients and Families
Strengthen Community Connections to Support Whole-Person Care
Integrate Patient and Family Feedback into Quality and Decision-Making
We Are Here to Support You
If you have questions or require further assistance regarding the application of any protocols, do not hesitate to contact us. Our team is here to support you in providing exceptional care to your patients.