Expressed preferences for health education of patients after percutaneous coronary intervention

Background Percutaneous coronary intervention patients may require further education to increase their uptake of lifestyle change. Little is known, however, about their preferences for health education. This study aimed to investigate percutaneous coronary intervention patients' preferences regarding information provision and to identify patient characteristics associated with specific preferences. Design and methods A consecutive series of eligible patients was recruited from three metropolitan hospitals in Melbourne, Australia after their first percutaneous coronary intervention. Structured telephone interviews were conducted with 218 patients shortly after discharge from hospital. Patient preferences for source and format of information about both heart disease and lifestyle change were ascertained. Data regarding demographic characteristics and rehabilitation attendance were also collected. Results Cardiac rehabilitation programme staff were the most frequently nominated preferred source for information delivery. Cardiac rehabilitation was also the most frequently nominated preferred format for information delivery. Half the patients nominated alternative formats, most commonly individual consultation with a health professional and self-education. Not surprisingly, patients who preferred alternatives to group cardiac rehabilitation were significantly less likely to attend rehabilitation. Conclusions It is important to cater for patients who express a desire for alternative information formats. A flexible model of cardiac rehabilitation delivery which incorporates non-group alternatives would meet the needs of these patients.