Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) Program

The Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF) Program at New York Presbyterian/Weill Cornell Medical Center is the first and only subspecialty program in New York dedicated to this unique subtype of heart failure. Patients with HFpEF, also known as diastolic heart failure, develop heart failure symptoms like fatigue and shortness of breath despite normal (or preserved) heart pump function. There is often uncertainty and significant challenges with both diagnosing and treating this complex condition. The HFpEF Program aims to assist with both diagnosis and treatment in order to ultimately improve outcomes for this vulnerable population. 

The HFpEF Program is led by Dr. Parag Goyal, an advanced heart failure specialist and geriatric cardiologist. Our team also includes a nurse practitioner, Birgit Siceloff, and a dedicated social worker, Melissa Hefferan, who have extensive experience with caring for heart failure patients. 

Dr. Goyal and the HFpEF program are focused on providing comprehensive care with individualized treatments based on each patient’s unique cardiovascular and medical profile. The HFpEF program offers access to state-of-the-art therapies, the opportunity to participate in clinical trials, and integrated care with a particular focus on closely coordinating with other specialties as needed. Patients also receive education on best strategies for self-care and are encouraged to actively participate in shared decision-making along with their family members and caregivers.

What is Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction (HFpEF)?

Unlike other types of heart failure where the heart pump is damaged, HFpEF is a heart condition in which the heart pump is fairly normal (preserved). However, stiffening of the heart muscle and abnormalities in the blood vessels can still cause heart failure symptoms, including shortness of breath, fatigue, swelling, and limitations in exercise.

Why do we offer a program specializing in HFpEF?

To Ensure an Accurate Diagnosis
Diagnosing HFpEF can be challenging. It cannot be determined by a single blood test. Our program provides a comprehensive evaluation where we assess cardiovascular function, identify other chronic medical conditions, and evaluate for age-related concerns such as frailty and cognitive impairment.

To Develop an Optimal Care Plan
We individualize therapy based on each patient’s unique cardiovascular and medical profile. We hope to provide a treatment plan that can help relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and preserve independence.

To Offer Access to Newest Therapies
There are many new strategies under development to treat HFpEF. We offer some of the newest state-of-the-art therapies in our program. There is also opportunity to participate in clinical trials for those who are interested.

To Provide Education
We help patients to understand how HFpEF affects them, and provide them with the knowledge and tools to best manage this condition with the help of our team.

To Help Patients Take Control
We want our patients to take an active role in decision-making about their care. We believe that in order to make the best medical decisions, it is important that we understand each patient’s value system and collaborate with them to help them reach their health goals.

HFpEF Program Brochure