Effect of Targeted Education for Atrial Fibrillation Patients (Application Substudy)

Effect of Targeted Education for Atrial Fibrillation Patients (Application Substudy)

The aim of this study is to evaluate a new and innovative educational application based on targeted education on the adherence level for NOACs (non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants) in AF patients, compared with standard care, online targeted education and in-person targeted education.

Several other parameters (knowledge level, quality of life, symptom burden, self-care capabilities, evaluation of educational efforts) will be studied. If resources allow, cardiovascular outcomes, cost-effectiveness and cost-utility will also be investigated.

This substudy is part of the AF-EduCare study (NCT03707873): an extra study arm will be added to the main trial in which eligible AF patients (= in possession of a smartphone and capable working with their smartphone) will test this new educational application. Not eligible patients randomized to this group, will receive standard care.

This extra study arm will additionally include an anticipated 221 patients (eligible plus not eligible patients).

[An anticipated total of 1259 AF patients will be included for the AF-EduCare study (1038 AF patients) plus the AF-EduApp substudy (221 AF patients).]

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