What we’ve achieved
The Global Heart Hub commissioned HPP to lead on the research and writing of a patient guide to shared decision-making in heart valve disease. Working with an Advisory Board comprising clinical and patient experts, we drafted a full patient guide and a one-page supporting summary, which people with heart valve disease can print and take with them to medical appointments.
The patient guide is based around key stages in the patient journey, from diagnosis to heart valve repair or replacement. It outlines what the ESC/EACTS guidelines say and the opportunities for the person with heart valve disease to participate in decisions about their care at each step of the process. It also contains a shared decision-making checklist to help guide conversations with healthcare professionals.
This guide seeks to empower people with heart valve disease to express their goals and treatment preferences to their care team. It does not seek to replicate or replace established clinical guidelines for the management of valvular heart disease.