Exploring methodology for investigating Chinese coronary artery disease patient values and preferences: A...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Health Services Research
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a major global health concern, leading to significant mortality and disability.
• CAD patients experience a critical balance between the benefits of antithrombotic therapy and the risks of bleeding.
• Incorporating patient values and preferences into clinical guidelines is essential for effective CAD management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a robust methodology for establishing minimal important differences (MIDs) in patient-important outcomes for coronary artery disease (CAD).
• To create standard materials for surveying patient values and determining MIDs specifically within the Chinese CAD patient population.
• To provide a foundation for future research on patient-important outcomes and inform clinical guideline development.

Main Methods:

• A multidisciplinary working group guided the investigation through a three-phase process.
• Key outcomes were identified via literature review and expert discussion.
• Draft health outcome descriptions were synthesized from existing evidence and patient interviews, refined through cognitive interviews.
• Outcome-specific draft MID questionnaires were developed and assessed for clarity using cognitive interviews.

Main Results:

• The study outlines a systematic approach to developing patient-centered outcome measures for CAD.
• Methodological challenges in directly surveying patients for MIDs are addressed.
• Standardized materials for surveying patient values and determining MIDs are being developed.

Conclusions:

• This research will yield essential tools for assessing patient values in CAD.
• The developed methodology will facilitate the determination of MIDs for patient-important outcomes.
• The findings will significantly contribute to evidence-based clinical guideline development for CAD patients.