UMC Utrecht, in collaboration with thirteen hospitals, will conduct a study on the effectiveness of decision support in patients with cardiovascular disease. By tailoring preventive treatments to the individual patient, this can lead to more efficient use of medication and better therapy compliance. Researchers Steven Hageman and Frank Visseren of the Department of Vascular Medicine received a grant of 1.3 million euros from ZonMW for this study.
In identifying and treating risk factors for cardiovascular disease, called cardiovascular risk management (CVRM), a “one-size-fits-all” approach often takes place. As a result, patients with cardiovascular disease do not always receive the most appropriate treatment that will benefit them the most. “With this study, we want to improve this approach by using four pillars,” explains Steven Hageman, physician-investigator. “These pillars are better communication between patient and medical specialist, training health care providers in shared decision-making, offering a dual consultation, and personalizing treatment using the decision support tool U-Prevent.
The researchers expect the four pillars to lead to more efficient use of medication and improved adherence, ultimately resulting in a lower risk of new cardiovascular disease in this high-risk patient group. The study, 2-DECIDE, focuses on patients with stable vascular disease, including coronary artery disease, cerebrovascular disease and peripheral vascular disease. The study will take place in 14 to 16 hospitals, with a total of about 1,200 patients to participate. The study design follows a “stepped-wedge” model, with all participating hospitals treating patients first according to current standard care, and later using the intervention.
The research starting at the end of the year falls under the ZonMw program – Care Evaluation & Appropriate Use (ZE&GG). The research idea was developed in co-creation with various parties (including internists, cardiologists, scientific associations, health insurers, patients, an external methodologist and the Care Institute).
