PANACEA-HF
A World-First AI Heart Failure Detection Study
Springs Medical is proud to be part of a groundbreaking international project that could transform how heart failure is detected and managed in Australia.
About the Project
Springs Medical is 1 of only 3 GP clinics across Australia participating in PANACEA-HF – a world-first study using artificial intelligence (AI) to help detect heart failure early.
The study is led by Professor Simon Stewart from the University of Notre Dame, Western Australia, and supported by the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association (APNA). It is funded by a $2 million Medical Research Fund of Australia grant.
Over four years, this trial will test advanced AI-powered screening tools developed in the U.S. and Singapore, making early detection of heart failure more accessible in general practice.
What is PANACEA-HF?
PANACEA-HF stands for:
Practice Nurses to Augment the Clinical Evaluation and Care of people at high-risk of Heart Failure.
Using AI-assisted portable devices such as iPads, nurses will carry out screenings in primary care. The goal is simple: to detect heart failure earlier, so patients receive timely care and avoid hospitalisation.
Why It Matters
- Heart failure is a leading cause of hospitalisation for Australians over 65.
- Many people live with heart failure without knowing it – until it’s too late.
- Early detection gives people the best chance at managing their health.
“More than half a million Australians are living with heart failure without knowing it. By the time they are diagnosed, their prognosis can be worse than many cancers.”
Professor Simon Stewart, Lead Researcher
Springs Medical’s Role
At Springs Medical, our nurses are leading the way in this pioneering study:
- Nurses involved: Jenny Elliot, Simone Barry, Lee-anne Potter
- Lead GP: Dr James Smith
Dr James Smith, Director at Springs Medical:
“Our nurses are at the heart of this project, taking on a pioneering role that could reshape how we detect and manage heart failure across Australia.”
How to Take Part
Springs Medical is currently recruiting participants for the study.
You may be eligible if you are:
- Over 60 years of age
- Have at least one risk factor, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or existing heart disease
If you’re interested in participating or would like more information, please contact our clinics:
- Springs Medical Daylesford
- Springs Medical Kyneton
Looking Ahead
If successful, the PANACEA-HF project will expand nationally, with APNA preparing to roll out nurse training across Australia. This could mean every GP clinic in the country will have access to life-saving AI tools for early heart failure detection.
Springs Medical is proud to be helping lead this change – right here in our community.