Empowering patients through education: SPARK program lights the way for people living with cardiac devices
Image: SPARK Program
The Victorian Heart Hospital has launched the SPARK (Sharing Positive Advice, Resources and Knowledge) program - a new initiative designed to help people living with cardiac devices, such as pacemakers or defibrillators, feel confident, informed and supported in managing their heart health.
Led by experts from the Victorian Heart Institute and Monash Health, SPARK brings together patients, families and clinicians to share practical knowledge and lived experience in a supportive, easy-to-understand format.
“When someone first receives a cardiac device, it can be a big adjustment emotionally and physically,” said SPARK Program Coordinator, Associate Professor Hui-Chen Han, a cardiologist and electrophysiologist at the Victorian Heart Hospital.
“SPARK is about empowering patients through knowledge and connection, so they can take charge of their health and know they’re not alone,” said cardiac physiologist and SPARK Program Founder and Coordinator, Juliet Young.
“For many patients it’s not just about understanding their device, it's about feeling seen and supported - and that’s what SPARK is designed to achieve,” she said.
The inaugural session, How does my Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) work?, featured presentations guiding participants through how implantable defibrillators function, common myths and misconceptions, and tips for living confidently with a device.
“This session broke everything down in simple language and helped me understand what my device actually does. Having a safe space to ask questions and meet other people going through the same thing helped me feel less alone.” - SPARK Program Participant.
“Education is one of the most powerful tools in improving heart outcomes. When patients understand what’s happening inside their own heart and the technology supporting it they become active partners in their care and everyone benefits,” said Associate Professor Han.
The SPARK program reflects the Victorian Heart Institute’s commitment to putting patients at the centre of innovation by bridging clinical excellence with community education and engagement.
SPARK will continue through 2026 with new topics and sessions. Stay in the loop by joining the mailing list (select Community Education so we know what updates you’d like to receive).
Get involved
If you’d like to contribute to shaping future programs and research, join the Victorian Heart Institute Community Pulse - a register for people with lived experience, carers and community members who want to have a say in the future of heart health research and education. Learn more here.