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Updated: Jan 16, 2026
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Lumped-Parameter and Finite Element Modeling of Heart Failure with Preserved Ejection Fraction
Published on: February 13, 2021
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Nothing Is Wrong With My Heart: Patient-Reported Understanding of Heart Failure With Preserved Ejection Fraction
Yulia Khodneva1, Megan Nordberg1, Larry R Hearld2
1Department of Medicine School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham Birmingham AL USA.
Journal of the American Heart Association
|September 30, 2025
Summary
Patients with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) often lack awareness of their diagnosis and face barriers to understanding their condition. Improved provider communication and patient education are crucial for better HFpEF management.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Patient Education
- Qualitative Research
Background:
- Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is the fastest-growing heart failure subtype.
- Half of HFpEF patients are unaware of their diagnosis, hindering effective management.
- Understanding patient-reported barriers is essential for improving HFpEF care.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore patient-reported barriers to understanding heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF).
- To identify patient needs and suggestions for improving HFpEF care and communication.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative study involving adult patients diagnosed with HFpEF.
- Thematic analysis of interviews exploring patients' understanding of their heart condition.
- Data collection focused on patient-reported experiences and information needs.
Main Results:
- Twenty-one HFpEF patients participated, with most unaware of their specific diagnosis.
- Key barriers included lack of provider information, poor communication, and complex medical terms.
- Patients desired enhanced health information, mental health support, and improved communication with healthcare teams.
Conclusions:
- Patients with HFpEF frequently lack awareness of their diagnosis.
- Participants offered suggestions for interventions to improve understanding and care.
- Addressing communication gaps is vital for empowering HFpEF patients.
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