Engaging Patients in Care (EPIC): A Framework for Heart Function and Heart Transplant-Specific Patient Engagement

Engaging Patients in Care (EPIC) is a local patient engagement initiative at the University Health Network for patients and families who have received care for heart failure, heart transplant, or mechanical circulatory support (left ventricular assist device). Patients and caregivers can engage at 4 different levels, including sharing, consulting, deliberating, and collaborating, depending on their knowledge, experience, and available time. The Engaging Patients In Care framework has 4 priority areas: Care Delivery and Policy, Patient Advocacy, Peer Support, and Research. We have identified key engagement barriers with a discussion of possible solutions. We hope this framework can be adapted as an evidentiary baseline for other heart failure and transplant institutions across Canada.