Virtual Education Program for Atrial Fibrillation
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a virtual education program, called AF at Home, can help people with atrial fibrillation (irregular heartbeat) better manage their condition and improve their quality of life. Participants will join online sessions to learn self-monitoring and self-care strategies. The trial seeks adults diagnosed with atrial fibrillation. Participants will complete six hours of virtual sessions over three weeks and fill out questionnaires before and after the program.
As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to gain valuable self-care skills and potentially enhance their quality of life.
Do I need to stop my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems to focus on education rather than medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this virtual education program is safe for participants?
Research has shown that virtual education programs for atrial fibrillation (AF) are generally safe and easy to manage. A previous study, INFORM-AF, demonstrated positive results in improving quality of life for people with AF, without major side effects. Another study, AF-EduCare, found that both in-person and online education effectively increased knowledge about AF, again with no major safety concerns.
Although these studies did not identify any safety issues, it's important to note that the AF at Home program involves only online education sessions and questionnaires. These activities are non-invasive and low-risk, making serious side effects unlikely.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the "AF at Home" virtual education program for atrial fibrillation because it offers a unique approach to managing this common heart condition. Unlike traditional treatments that focus on medication or surgical interventions, this program empowers patients by providing them with easy access to educational resources and personalized support from the comfort of their homes. By enhancing patient knowledge and engagement, "AF at Home" has the potential to improve self-management and adherence to treatment plans, which could lead to better health outcomes. This innovative approach stands out because it taps into the power of technology to bridge the gap between patients and healthcare providers, potentially revolutionizing how atrial fibrillation is managed.
What evidence suggests that this virtual education program is effective for atrial fibrillation?
Research has shown that the AF at Home virtual education program, provided to all trial participants, can boost confidence in managing atrial fibrillation. In past studies, participants adhered better to their treatment plans. Programs like AF at Home also enhance understanding of atrial fibrillation, leading to improved self-care and management. Overall, these programs empower participants to feel more in control of their health, which is crucial for enhancing their quality of life.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Anil Gehi, MD
Principal Investigator
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults with atrial fibrillation, either non-valvular or valvular. Participants must be 18 years or older and capable of giving informed consent. It's not open to individuals who are incarcerated.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Virtual Education Program
Participants engage in a virtual education program ('AF at Home') for atrial fibrillation, consisting of six hours of sessions over three weeks via Zoom.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for improvement in quality of life, self-monitoring, and self-management strategies, as well as healthcare utilization and medication adherence.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- AF at Home
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Lead Sponsor
Bristol-Myers Squibb Foundation
Collaborator
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Industry Sponsor
Christopher Boerner
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Chief Executive Officer since 2023
PhD in Business Administration from the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley; BA in Economics and History from Washington University in St. Louis
Deepak L. Bhatt
Bristol-Myers Squibb
Chief Medical Officer since 2024
MD from Yale University; MSc in Clinical Epidemiology from the University of Pennsylvania
Wake Forest University
Collaborator
Duke University
Collaborator