Effect of Targeted Education for Atrial Fibrillation Patients

Effect of Targeted Education for Atrial Fibrillation Patients

The aim of this study is to evaluate the effect of targeted in-person and online education on cardiovascular outcomes of AF patients (inpatient and outpatient), compared with standard care. Several other parameters (i.e. knowledge level, quality of life, symptom burden, self-care capabilities, adherence to oral anticoagulation, and an evaluation of the educational efforts) will be studied. Cost-effectiveness and cost-utility will also be investigated.

The main research hypothesis is that individualized education based on the knowledge gaps measured with the JAKQ (Jessa Atrial fibrillation Knowledge Questionnaire) in each individual patient (called 'targeted education') is superior when compared to current AF care, both from an efficacy perspective (evaluated by different outcome measures) and from a cost-effectiveness perspective.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age ≥ 18 years
2. Patients in whom AF or atrial flutter is diagnosed with an electrocardiogram (12-lead, holter,…)
3. Patients who are capable to sign the informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Not able to speak and read Dutch
2. Cognitive impaired (e.g. severe dementia)
3. Life expectancy is estimated to be less than 1 year.
4. Ongoing participation in another clinical trial.
5. Pregnant women