Treatment beliefs and attending follow-up visits in a lipid clinic

To explore the value of demographics, clinical parameters, and treatment beliefs in predicting attendance at follow-up visits in a lipid clinic.

Prospective cohort study.

A total of 104 consecutive patients, who attended the Meir Medical Center lipid clinic for the first time, were followed for an average of 14 months. During the first visit, demographic and clinical parameters were obtained and a treatment beliefs and a self-rated health questionnaire were completed. Those who kept all scheduled follow-up visits were categorized as attendees and those who were lost to follow up as non-attendees. The two groups were compared on demographic and clinical parameters, as well as on treatment and health beliefs.

Lipid target level achievement was higher in attendees (p < .001). However, only 49 patients (47%) attended the scheduled clinic visits. None of the demographic or clinical parameters significantly predicted attendance. Both groups scored high on perceived risk-to-health of uncontrolled lipid levels and on perceived effectiveness and benefits of treatment. Non-attendees reported significantly more perceived barriers and treatment misconceptions/disbeliefs, and lower self-rated health.

Beliefs concerning lipid-lowering treatment should be identified so that they may be effectively addressed in order to improve patient attendance at follow-up visits to a lipid clinic.