Evolving information needs in cardiac rehabilitation 2.0

Background Despite individual preferences for the provision of health information, health education often follows a one-size-fits-all approach in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes. This study evaluates changes in information needs of patients during the first twelve months after a cardiovascular event. Methods Quantitative data were collected from 259 patients who participated in CR because of symptomatic coronary artery disease. Information needs regarding nutrition, physical activity, smoking, psychosocial wellbeing and medication were assessed at baseline, three months, and twelve months using questionnaires. Furthermore, we conducted semi-structured interviews with 10 CR participants. Results Information needs were highest at baseline, decreased for all domains from baseline to three months of follow-up, and remained stable thereafter for most patients. No predictive factors were found for changes in information needs. After twelve months, 41% of patients still had a need for information regarding at least one of the 5 domains. Qualitative analyses supported these findings and highlighted individual preferences for health education, with timing of education as a critical element. Conclusion Baseline differences in information needs and their change over time indicate that there is a need for personalised provision of health information, as opposed to current one-size-fits-all health education programmes for patients with cardiovascular disease.