Implementing a cardiac resynchronization therapy program in a county hospital.

Clinical trials and research literature show the benefits of cardiac resynchronization therapy and implantable cardioverter defibrillator devices in improving the quality of life for selected patients with heart failure. While translating these positive research results into clinical practice is a major effort requiring a strategic planning process, implementing these practices in-house may result in cost savings and possible increased revenue. The authors describe the planning and implementation process used to introduce these therapies in a cardiac catheterization laboratory at a county teaching hospital.