Implementing Individualized Patient Reported Outcome Measures in Routine Care of Patients With Coronary Artery Disease
This study is testing a new online survey system called APPROACH for patients with coronary artery disease and their doctors. Patients complete health and quality of life surveys online, and the results are then shared with their heart doctor. The main aim of this first stage is to see if this system is practical and helpful for both patients and doctors in everyday care. Researchers want to know if it makes conversations about symptoms easier and if it helps manage the condition better. This helps them decide if a larger study is a good idea. Participants will use the survey and report tools and share their experiences to improve future heart care.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Imagine you have a heart condition called coronary artery disease. This is when the blood vessels that supply your heart become narrowed or blocked, which can lead to symptoms like chest pain. This study is looking at a new way to help you and your doctor talk about your health and how you're feeling.
Researchers have created an online survey system called APPROACH. Before your appointment, you'd fill out a survey online about your quality of life and how your symptoms are affecting you. Then, when you see your heart doctor (cardiologist), they would have a report that summarises your answers. The idea is that this report could help you and your doctor have a more focused and effective conversation about your heart health and how best to manage it.
This is a pilot study, which means it's a small-scale test run. The main goal right now is to see if this online survey system is easy to use for patients and doctors, and if they find it helpful in their regular appointments. If this pilot study shows good results, it could lead to a bigger study in the future to see if the system genuinely improves patient care and health outcomes.
Key takeaways
- Tests a new online survey system for heart patients.
- Aims to improve how patients and doctors talk about heart health.
- Checks if the system is easy to use and helpful.
- You'll complete an online survey before your doctor's appointment.
- Your doctor will see a summary of your answers.
- This is a pilot study, paving the way for larger research if successful.
Who may be eligible?
To take part in this study, you would need to be at least 40 years old. You'd also need to have either a confirmed diagnosis of coronary artery disease (for example, if you've had a heart attack or a procedure to unblock your arteries) or have symptoms that suggest you might have it, such as stable chest pain that brings you to a heart specialist.
You should be able to communicate in English, or have a family member or friend who can help you with the surveys. Importantly, you'll need to have access to the internet, a valid email address, and a device like a computer, tablet, or smartphone to complete the online surveys. Finally, you would need to have an upcoming appointment with a heart doctor involved in the study within the next 2-4 weeks.
There aren't any specific reasons that would automatically exclude you, as long as you meet all the points mentioned above.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Am I at least 40 years old?
- Do I have diagnosed coronary artery disease or symptoms suggesting it?
- Can I communicate in English, or have someone help me?
- Do I have internet access, an email address, and a device (e.g., smartphone) for surveys?
- Do I have a cardiology appointment coming up in the next 2-4 weeks?
What does participation involve?
If you take part, you'll be part of a group of patients whose doctors are testing this new system. You'll be asked to complete an online survey about your health and how you're feeling before your regular cardiology appointment. The report generated from your answers will then be available to your doctor during your consultation. You will not have any extra follow-up visits specifically for the study after your single appointment, and the study doesn't involve new medications or procedures. Your participation will last for one visit.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (2)
- Cumming School of Medicine, University of CalgaryVerified postcodeCalgary, Canada· Recruiting
- Department of Medicine, University of AlbertaVerified postcodeCalgary, Canada· Recruiting
Common questions
What is coronary artery disease?
It's a common heart condition where the arteries that supply blood to your heart become narrowed, often due to a build-up of fatty substances. This can lead to chest pain, breathlessness, and other symptoms.
What is an ePROM survey?
It stands for 'electronic Patient Reported Outcome Measure'. It's an online survey where you answer questions about your health and how you're feeling, from your own perspective.
Will my doctor see my survey answers?
Yes, your doctor will receive a report that summarises your answers from the online survey to help guide your discussion during your appointment.
Do I have to do anything extra if I join the study?
Your main task would be to complete the online survey before your scheduled heart appointment. There are no extra appointments or procedures planned.
Will this study change my heart treatment?
This study is about improving communication. While better communication might help your doctor make more informed decisions, the study itself doesn't introduce new treatments, and all treatment decisions remain between you and your doctor.
How to find out more
Stephen B WIlton, MD, MSc
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Interested in taking part?
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