The Heart Failure Patient Foundation Position Statement on Research and Patient Involvement.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular research
• Patient-centered outcomes
• Health services research

Background:

• Heart Failure (HF) affects approximately 64 million people globally, representing a significant public health challenge.
• The growing prevalence of HF necessitates improved research strategies and patient involvement.

Purpose of the Study:

• To advocate for the active participation of adult patients with HF in research.
• To guide HF leaders in integrating patients throughout the entire research lifecycle.
• To develop evidence-based recommendations for patient inclusion in HF research.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive review of existing literature on patient involvement in research.
• Analysis of best practices in patient engagement within clinical research.
• Development of recommendations by the HF Patient Foundation based on gathered evidence.

Main Results:

• Healthcare professionals, researchers, and funding bodies play a crucial role in ensuring high-quality research.
• Integrating patients into the research process enhances the quality and applicability of findings.
• Patient involvement can lead to improved quality of life for patients and their families.

Conclusions:

• The HF Patient Foundation strongly advocates for patient involvement in all research phases, from conception to dissemination.
• Active patient participation in HF research is essential for improving patient outcomes.
• Integrating patient perspectives advances the scientific understanding and treatment of HF.