What should patients demonstrate to their third-party coverage providers for BTT eligibility?

To qualify for Bridge to Transplant (BTT) eligibility, patients must show their commitment to self-care. This is crucial because BTT programs are designed for those awaiting heart transplantation, and self-care indicates that a patient is proactive in managing their health, adheres to medication regimens, and understands lifestyle modifications necessary for better health outcomes. Demonstrating a commitment to self-care can include following dietary guidelines, maintaining an exercise routine, monitoring weight, and recognizing and reporting symptoms.

While participation in physical therapy, regular doctor visits, and documentation of abstaining from tobacco can be beneficial and may enhance a patient's overall health, they do not capture the essential aspect of self-management and responsibility for one’s health that third-party coverage providers are looking for when determining eligibility for BTT. The focus on self-care signifies that patients are more likely to follow through with post-transplant care and maintain better health outcomes after receiving a transplant.