The BHF card
Living with a heart condition can
be very difficult for young people, and for some everyday
activities are impossible.
Young people sometimes find others questioning their
condition, or making assumptions about what activities they can and
can’t do so the BHF card was developed as a direct response to
feedback from young people with a heart condition.
They wanted an easy and discreet way to demonstrate to
others that they suffered from an ongoing heart condition. The BHF
card is part of the our meet@teenheart
programme for young peope living with heart conditions.
What does the BHF card look like?
The BHF card is free for young people
aged between 13 and 19 with an ongoing heart condition
and valid for two years. It's filled out by a cardiac nurse,
cardiologist or cardiac physiologist and also has space for an
official passport-style photo.
When should it be used?
Young people can use the card when their condition is
questioned or forgotten. For example, if they need to clarify
what types of physical activity they can and can’t do, or if
they need time off school to attend a doctors’ appointment.
The BHF card can also be used as additional information in
case of an emergency.
Where can medical professionals get hold of BHF cards to give
to young patients?
Cardiac specialist doctors and nurses can order BHF cards
for free by
ordering online, emailing orderline@bhf.org.uk or calling
0870 600 6566, quoting reference number
G486. The BHF card comes in pads of 20.
Healthcare professionals can order either:
How can a young person get hold of one?
If you are a young person or know of
someone with a heart condition, you can get a BHF card by
asking the healthcare professional you see in clinic about your
heart.