Evaluation of a heart failure self-management programme

Background: Supported self-care has the potential to improve quality of life (QoL) for people with heart failure (HF), while reducing dependency on acute care to manage exacerbation. Methods: A series of HF self-management programmes (HF-SMP) were evaluated using a mixed-methods approach. Information was collected on QoL, ability to self-care and self-efficacy using validated questionnaires; patient experience was gathered via testimonials. Results: Twenty-eight patients attended four HF-SMPs. The evaluation found improvement in disease-specific QoL and ability to self-care at 3 months post the programme. However, there was less progress in general QoL and self-efficacy. The testimonials emphasised the positive social benefits of the HF-SMPs. Differences in profile at baseline and outcomes were noted for HF patients depending on whether they were newly-diagnosed or had long-standing HF. Conclusion: HF-SMPs can improve QoL and have value in terms of peer support for people living with HF. The findings have...