Over a third of people diagnosed with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) stop taking oral antiplatelet (OAP) medication within nine months of initiation, despite potential consequences of heart
attack and death.
To address this high level of non-persistence to OAP medication and help the newly diagnosed to adjust to recommended lifestyle changes, we provided a personalized multichannel behavior change program.
A research and evidence-based approach identified unhelpful beliefs associated with OAP nonadherence. This included a literature review, plus multi-market qualitative and quantitative research with patients, physicians and cardiac nurses.
Proposed program materials were developed in collaboration with physicians and cardiac nurses from UK private and public hospitals.
Subsequent testing of the materials with people diagnosed with ACS in other countries informed cultural adaptations.
Psychoeducational support, addressing individuals’ beliefs and challenges in living with ACS, was delivered via multiple channels over a six-month program journey. Behavior change techniques empowered adherence and adoption of practical skills and positive lifestyle behaviors, including cardiac rehab attendance.
Each individual's profiling data was leveraged to personalize the content and frequency of contact, according to their specific needs.
The program positively impacted OAP persistence:
This compares favorably with previous data reporting on OAP persistence of 34% at 12 months.
Program participants also reported making positive lifestyle changes, with:
The program was delivered to people living with ACS across Australia, Germany, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, and the United Kingdom.
