First Heart Failure Center certified outside U.S.

The National Institute of Cardiology Ignacio Chávez in Mexico City has become the first health care organization outside the United States to become a certified Comprehensive Heart Failure Center by the American Heart Association. This milestone marks a significant step in extending rigorous, evidence-based heart failure care standards to health systems worldwide.

Heart failure affects millions globally, and outcomes improve when care teams consistently apply guideline-directed medical therapy and coordinated care pathways. The certification criteria assess advanced imaging and treatment capabilities, 24/7 access to specialized therapies, participation in clinical research and staff competencies tailored to complex heart failure management.

A multidisciplinary team of expert reviewers determined that Ignacio Chávez met or exceeded all comprehensive standards, validating its commitment to patient-centered care, quality improvement and reduced readmissions. “This milestone reflects a shared commitment to high-quality care for heart failure patients worldwide,” noted D.P. Suresh, M.D., volunteer co-chair of the American Heart Association International Committee.

Building on this global momentum, two additional international hospitals have now earned certification as Comprehensive Heart Failure Centers: Far Eastern Memorial Hospital, in Taiwan, and Sheikh Tahnoon Bin Mohammed, in the United Arab Emirates. Their achievement underscores the growing reach of the program and the shared dedication of leading institutions to elevate the standard of care for patients living with heart failure.

As this hospital sets a new benchmark for heart failure care, the Association's certification program continues to support a global network of facilities striving to enhance care quality, optimize treatment outcomes and advance systems of care for patients living with heart failure.