Welcome to the Yorkshire and Humber Adult Congenital Heart Disease Network website.

It is estimated that there are more than 13 000 patients over the age of 16 years with congenital heart disease now living within the Yorkshire and Humber area.  This figure is expected to increase overall by around 20% between now (2007) and 2015.  The number of complex patients is expected to increase by 80% in the same time period.  Overall patient numbers are expected to continue to rise year on year until 2040. 

Some of these conditions are straightforward and easily dealt with, but others are more complicated.  The Department of Health recognises that there is currently a shortage of medical and other health staff with adequate training to look after patients with complex disease.

These pages are designed for NHS employees in the Yorkshire and Humber Strategic Health Authority Area, and for patients and carers.

For NHS staff, the website is designed to provide a first reference point for those dealing with adult patients with congenital heart disease.  You may find that the question you have is answered on these pages - otherwise the website should tell you who to contact and how.

For patients with a congenital heart defect, these pages are designed to help you access information about your heart, answer some questions you may have, and will also tell you who to contact in certain situations.

 The information on this site is meant as guidance only, and is offered for educational and informational purposes.  It is not intended to replace direct consultation with medical professionals.   This information should neither cause action nor prevent action.  Contributors to Yorkshire and Humber Cardiac Networks are not responsible, nor liable for any claim, loss or damage arising from the use of the information contained within this site. In addition, Yorkshire and Humber Cardiac Networks disclaims any representation or warranty concerning the accuracy of the information, which may be used for any purpose.