New Valve Clinic Opens at West Middlesex Hospital
Aims to provide earlier diagnosis of heart valve disease
Dr Liuba Fusco and Narayani Pai are members of the valve clinic team
February 20, 2026
Chelsea and Westminster Hospital NHS Foundation Trust has launched a new valve clinic at West Middlesex University Hospital
It aims to offer patients faster access to specialist assessment and earlier diagnosis of heart valve disease. The clinic is led by cardiac physiologists and is designed to streamline care, reduce delays and improve outcomes for patients.
The service opened last month and is expected to benefit between 200 and 250 patients in its first year, with capacity projected to grow to 400–500 annually including those treated at the sister clinic at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital. It supports national NHS priorities for early diagnosis and prevention, and reflects a forward-thinking approach to workforce models by freeing up consultant time for complex cases.
Heart valve disease affects how blood flows through the heart and becomes more common with age. It is often silent in its early stages, progressing gradually until symptoms become severe. Early detection can prevent complications such as heart failure and emergency hospital admissions. The condition affects around 2.5% of adults and more than 10% of people over 75. Nationally, over 1.6 million people over 65 are currently living with heart valve disease, with numbers expected to double by 2046 and rise to 3.3 million by 2056.
The new clinic provides a structured, guideline-driven pathway for patients, ensuring earlier assessment, consistent follow-up and timely referral for treatment when needed. Patients will benefit from shorter waiting times, fewer hospital visits and continuity of care with specialist clinicians.
Mary J. O’Donoghue, one of the first patients to attend the clinic, said she felt well supported and reassured throughout her appointment. She will return in six months for further monitoring and care if needed.
Narayani Pai, Lead for the Valve Clinic and Chief Cardiac Physiologist, said the service allows earlier detection and monitoring of heart valve disease, ensuring patients receive the right care at the right time. She added that the clinic improves access, reduces delays and supports better outcomes.
The clinic is supported by consultant oversight and standard operating procedures. It enables faster, evidence-based decision-making while maintaining high standards of safety and clinical governance. The Trust says the new service will play a vital role in improving care for patients across west London.
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