What does this research mean for the field?

The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with sustained declines in oral anticoagulation adherence and persistence among patients with atrial fibrillation in primary care. Novelty: ClaimNovelty.NOVEL_FINDING. Consensus alignment: ConsensusAlignment.CHALLENGES_CONSENSUS.

What question did this study set out to answer?

To investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to oral anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation in primary care.

March 8, 2026Open Access

The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on oral anticoagulation adherence in patients with atrial fibrillation managed in primary care: Results from the PRIME Registry

Key Result

The COVID-19 pandemic led to sustained declines in oral anticoagulation adherence and persistence in atrial fibrillation patients in primary care.

Key Points

To investigate the influence of the COVID-19 pandemic on adherence to oral anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation in primary care.
Analysis of data from the PRIME Registry
Assessment of adherence rates before and during the pandemic
Identification of high-risk subgroups for targeted intervention
Sustained declines in adherence to oral anticoagulants among AF patients
Need for telemedicine and home-based care interventions identified
Highlighted importance of addressing high-risk patient subgroups for improved care

Structured PICO

Does the COVID-19 pandemic affect oral anticoagulation adherence in patients with atrial fibrillation managed in primary care?

Population

Patients with atrial fibrillation managed in primary care (from the PRIME Registry)

Intervention

COVID-19 pandemic (exposure)

Outcome

Oral anticoagulation (OAC) adherence and persistence

The COVID-19 pandemic caused sustained declines in oral anticoagulation adherence among primary care atrial fibrillation patients, highlighting the need for targeted interventions like telemedicine during public health crises.

Main Result

Absolute Event Rate: 0% vs 0%

Abstract

The COVID-19 pandemic was associated with sustained declines in OAC adherence and persistence among AF patients in primary care. Targeted interventions including telemedicine, home-based care, and attention to high-risk subgroups are essential to maintain continuity of care and improve adherence during public health crises.