Can Jordan Create an AF CoE?
Can Jordan Create an AF CoE?
Yes. Jordan has:
• Excellent cardiologists and electrophysiologists
• Growing expertise in heart rhythm disorders
• Hospitals with modern EP labs (in Amman and major cities)
• Jordan’s cardiology community demonstrates strong teamwork and increasing alignment with international guidelines to support structured, evidence-based cardiovascular care. These are strong foundations.
How Can Jordan Adapt the AF CoE Model?
1. Start with a Pilot Center
• Begin with one or two major hospitals (e.g., university or private hospitals with EP services).
• Create a multidisciplinary AF care team (EPs, general cardiologists, nurses, pharmacists).
2. Develop Simple Care Pathways
• Use clear protocols for:
• Stroke prevention (CHA₂DS₂-VASc score and DOAC use)
• Risk factor control (blood pressure, diabetes, sleep apnea)
• Early rhythm control (ablation or antiarrhythmics)
3. Improve Patient Education
• Translate educational materials into Arabic.
• Use videos, brochures, and mobile apps to reach patients and families.
4. Collaborate Across Hospitals
• If some hospitals cannot offer procedures (e.g., ablation), they can refer to AF CoE centers.
• Build an AF Cooperative network that shares care between public, private, and military hospitals.
5. Use Available Technology
• Encourage use of wearable ECGs or Holter monitors for early diagnosis.
• Link patients to follow-up via WhatsApp, SMS, or mobile apps — which are widely used in Jordan.
6. Start Data Collection
• Begin with basic local registries (e.g., number of ablations, stroke rates).
• Join international registries (like AHA or ESC) in the future.
Challenges (but can be managed):
• Funding and infrastructure: Start small, then scale.
• Coordination between sectors: JCS can lead this through partnerships.
• Training needs: Offer AF-focused workshops and fellowships.
Conclusion
Creating an AF CoE in Jordan is not only possible — it is needed to improve AF care, reduce stroke risk, and promote high-quality, patient-centered cardiology.
With strong commitment from the Jordanian cardiology community, support from hospitals, and effective collaboration among stakeholders, Jordan can emerge as a regional leader in atrial fibrillation care excellence.
Dr Jamal Dabbas
