Sandau, Kristin E.

Background: People living with chronic heart conditions often experience poor quality of life (QoL) and reduced well-being; however, the intervention preferences to promote well-being among these individuals are not well known. Purpose: The purpose of this study was to describe QoL and preferences for wellbeing interventions in people with chronic heart conditions and to describe differences by heart condition diagnosis. Method: We conducted a cross-sectional study and recruited participants from a national online support group for people with heart conditions from April 29 to June 3, 2025. We measured QoL (WHO-QOL 28-item) and priorities for interventions via an investigator-developed questionnaire. Descriptive and bivariate analyses were conducted by heart condition. Results: In our preliminary findings among 107 participants [mean age=65.7 years (SD=12.5)], female (53%), White (82%), 67% ≥ 2 heart conditions] most reported being diagnosed with arrhythmias (36%), congenital heart disease (35%), and heart failure (34%), and the fewest reported cardiomyopathy (22%). Participants reported their physical health QoL as the lowest (M = 56.8±12.6), followed by psychological health (M = 62.5±13.1), and social relationships (M = 65.7±19.0). Most participants preferred non-pharmacological wellness interventions (79%) over pharmacological (23%). The highest interest in interventions was for nutrition/weight (80%), exercise (78%), relaxation (78%), mind-body (yoga or tai-chi) (72%), and meditation/mindfulness (69%). Most preferred delivery in-person (64%) or self-guided app/Website (60%). WHO-QOL ratings of Very Satisfied/Satisfied for Health Satisfaction were compared by heart condition (with and without) and were lower for two conditions: cardiomyopathy, (35% vs 63% p=0.015) and arrhythmias (44% vs 65%, p = 0.033). Participants with arrhythmias prioritized social support interventions (74% vs 48%, p = 0.010), while those with cardiomyopathy preferred interventions for depression (70% vs 43%, p = 0.025) (Table 1). Conclusion: We found that people were highly interested in behavioral interventions to promote their well-being. However, preferences for wellness interventions differed by diagnosis. Findings can guide interventions tailored based on condition.

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) is a global pandemic that is wreaking havoc on the health and economy of much of human civilization. Electrophysiologists have been impacted personally and professionally by this global catastrophe. In this joint article from representatives of the Heart Rhythm Society, the American College of Cardiology, and the American Heart Association, we identify the potential risks of exposure to patients, allied healthcare staff, industry representatives, and hospital administrators. We also describe the impact of COVID-19 on cardiac arrhythmias and methods of triage based on acuity and patient comorbidities. We provide guidance for managing invasive and noninvasive electrophysiology procedures, clinic visits, and cardiac device interrogations. In addition, we discuss resource conservation and the role of telemedicine in remote patient care along with management strategies for affected patients.