PO-01-053 LESSONS LEARNED FROM PATIENT ENGAGEMENT: EVALUATION OF A CO-LED IMPLANTABLE CARDIOVERTER DEFIBRILLATOR PATIENT EDUCATION PROGRAM

Abstract

The implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is an effective treatment modality but potential risks and complications can negatively impact psychological well-being in areas such as: shock-related anxiety, depression and reduced quality of life (QOL). Ensuring patients receive timely and comprehensive education contributes to informed decision-making, improved device acceptance and ability to live well with an ICD. Incorporating patient engagement in education programs can be an effective strategy to provide peer support and real-world experiences. Development of a co-led educational program provided by expert clinicians and patient partners living with an ICD is an effective strategy and patient-centred approach to care. To evaluate a collaborate delivery model of education co-led by clinicians and patient partners to provide information, support treatment decision and facilitate living well with an ICD. Patient partners with previously implanted ICDs were recruited through a provincial network matching volunteers with healthcare providers to engage in quality care processes. Device clinicians and patient partners implemented a 1-hour, monthly education session for potential and newly implanted recipients. Curriculum was informed through current literature reporting ICD patients’ educational needs. Format transitioned from in-person to virtual at the onset of the pandemic. Participants’ experiences were evaluated using site-developed questionnaires measuring ICD curriculum knowledge and satisfaction with program delivery. Between January 2019 and December 2021, 126 participants (median age: 62 years; women: 30%) attended. Four key components were identified in the program delivery: 1) referral to program, 2) contact and coordination, 3) education session and 4) follow-up. In-person participants (n=62, 49.2%) reported the session as helpful (n=56, 94%). Virtual participants 64 (50.8%) completed an electronic survey (n=27, 45%); reporting the co-led design as very helpful (n=22, 82%) or somewhat helpful (n=5, 18%). Pivoting to a virtual format expanded access to participants living in rural areas and facilitated opportunity for family and caregivers to attend. Patient engagement is an innovative approach for clinicians to incorporate into the education provided to ICD patients. Results of this project provide practice-ready recommendations for healthcare providers to design similar programs addressing the needs of patients considering or living with an ICD.