Heart failure (HF) is a significant health concern in the UK, impacting nearly one million individuals, predominantly those aged over 85. Characterised by symptoms such as breathlessness, fatigue, and leg swelling, HF often diminishes quality of life and is a substantial financial burden on the NHS, costing approximately £2 billion annually. Against this backdrop, a groundbreaking study is set to examine how exercise can empower heart failure patients and enhance their quality of life.
Physical activity is critical for individuals with heart failure (PWHF) as it can markedly improve exercise capacity and overall well-being. Evidence suggests that regular physical activity not only reduces risks associated with cardiovascular disease but also decreases mortality rates. However, a gap exists in ensuring that PWHF receive appropriate guidance and support from healthcare professionals regarding physical activity.
The study, spearheaded by a team from the University of the West of England and the University of Bristol, aims to explore the barriers and facilitators that general practitioners (GPs) and nurses face when referring PWHF to community physical activity services. This mixed-methods study will be conducted across GP practices in England, utilising qualitative interviews and profiling available community services.
Unlocking Potential: A Mixed-Methods Approach
This study adopts a concurrent mixed-methods approach, integrating both qualitative and quantitative research techniques to gain a comprehensive understanding of the issue at hand. In-depth interviews with healthcare professionals will provide insights into their experiences and challenges in discussing physical activity with PWHF, while a scoping study will identify available physical activity services across England.
The qualitative component will involve interviews with approximately 12 GPs and 12 nurses. These discussions will explore healthcare professionals' attitudes towards physical activity, their confidence in advising patients, and the resources available to support PWHF. The interviews aim to unearth both the barriers and enablers in these crucial conversations.
Mapping Community Support: Profiling Available Services
In parallel, the study will profile community physical activity services accessible to PWHF in England. By examining these services, the research will identify the types of support available, how they are funded and delivered, and the pathways through which healthcare professionals can refer patients. This component will provide a visual overview of the services available across different regions, highlighting any disparities in access.
Engaging Stakeholders: Workshops for Insight and Collaboration
The research will culminate in two stakeholder workshops designed to discuss and disseminate the findings. Healthcare professionals, exercise specialists, charity representatives, and patients will have the opportunity to engage with the research outcomes, ensuring that the insights gained are shared effectively and inform future practices.
Patient and public involvement (PPI) is central to this study, ensuring that the perspectives of those living with heart failure are integral to the research process. PPI contributors have been involved from the inception of the study, providing valuable feedback on the development of interview topics and contributing to the analysis of findings.
Paving the Way for Enhanced Healthcare Practices
The findings from this study are expected to bridge the gap in current healthcare practices by providing actionable recommendations for GPs and nurses. By understanding the barriers and opportunities in referring PWHF to physical activity services, healthcare professionals will be better equipped to support their patients effectively.
Ultimately, this research not only seeks to empower individuals living with heart failure but also aims to inform policy and practice within primary and community healthcare settings. Through collaboration and innovation, the study aspires to create a future where heart failure patients can lead active, fulfilling lives.
Source: Physical activity support for people with heart failure: mixed-methods study protocol