Congestive Heart Failure (CHF)

Aetna Better Health can help you get care if you have Congestive Heart Failure (CHF). CHF is not a disease. It’s a condition that happens when the heart cannot pump enough blood for your body. We have a disease management program for members with CHF.

Everyone with CHF needs care from a doctor. If you don’t get care, your heart could get weaker and you will feel very sick. You may even have to go to the hospital.

Many people live very well with CHF. To live well, you must see a doctor regularly and do what the doctor tells you. We’ll work with you and your doctor to get you the right treatment.

Most people with CHF fit in one of four groups:

  • Group One: A person may not have signs of CHF or heart damage. He or she may have other problems such as high blood pressure, diabetes or blocked blood vessels in the heart. We will teach you ways to live healthier if you are part of this group. 
  • Group Two: A person's heart has been damaged. The heart is not as healthy as it could be. But the person does not show symptoms of heart failure. Maybe the person has had a heart attack or an infection in the heart. Maybe the heart valves are not working correctly. Your doctor may give you medicine called ACE inhibitors or beta blockers if you are part of this group.
  • Group Three: A person's heart may be damaged, just as in group two. The person shows signs of heart failure. We’ll teach you about having healthier habits if you are part of this group. You’ll learn about exercise and eating healthy food. Also, your doctor may give you medicine for your CHF.
  • Group Four: This is the most serious group. A person's heart may be getting weaker. It may not be able to pump blood to the body very well. Your doctor may refer you to a heart doctor, or you may have to go to the hospital if you are part of this group.

It’s important to learn as much as you can about your CHF. If you want to learn more about Aetna Better Health's disease management program for CHF, call Member Services toll free at 1-855-364-0974. Ask to talk to a CHF care manager. If you have trouble hearing, call TTY Relay Ohio 7-1-1.