region/plan-specific news : Pennsylvania HealthChoices

Observing American Heart Month with whole-person care conversations

February’s American Heart Month¹ affords a timely reminder that physical and mental health are deeply connected. Even brief, supportive conversations about heart health can reinforce whole-person care and help members feel seen beyond their diagnosis.

The American Heart Association (AHA) offers easy-to-use resources you can share with members of all ages, including:

• Healthy living tips: www.heart.org
• Nutrition guidance: www.heart.org/eatsmart
• Sleep health resources: www.heart.org/sleep

These tools can support meaningful discussions with members in February and year-round.

Why heart health matters in mental healthcare

Individuals living with serious mental illness, including schizophrenia, face a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Heart disease risk is also higher among some racial and ethnic groups, including Black, non-Hispanic adults in the U.S., particularly when obesity and high blood pressure are present. For Medicaid members, these risks are often compounded by barriers to preventive care.

Mental health providers are uniquely positioned to reinforce prevention through trusted, ongoing relationships.

Key talking points for members at higher risk

Consider weaving these topics into care conversations, when appropriate:

• Cardiovascular and lipid monitoring matters. Regular cholesterol and triglyceride checks support early detection, risk assessment, and treatment monitoring. Even members without known risk factors may benefit, based on guidance from their primary care provider (PCP).
• Medication and metabolic health go hand in hand. Members taking psychiatric medications who are overweight should be encouraged to have routine cholesterol and blood pressure checks.
• Movement supports both heart and mental health. Regular physical activity strengthens cardiovascular health and can improve mood. Encourage members to discuss safe, realistic exercise options with their PCP.

Small, consistent conversations can reinforce prevention, support health equity, and help members connect mental health care with overall wellbeing—during American Heart Month and beyond.

¹ American Heart Association