Improving cardiac care with Positive Health and lifestyle interventions: a patient journey in a peripheral hospital setting

The increasing focus on health promotion and preventive healthcare is essential in reducing cardiovascular disease burdens. Positive Health (PH), centred on adaptability and self-management, presents a promising approach to enhance cardiac care. This study explores the integration of PH and lifestyle interventions within cardiac care, pinpointing areas for improvement through a patient journey analysis. This qualitative observational study uses a patient journey approach to analyse the integration of PH principles in cardiac care. A qualitative approach included a semistructured interview with a cardiac patient and a focus group with ten healthcare professionals, segmented into three stages: initial signal and examination, diagnosis and treatment and post-treatment follow-up. Thematic analysis revealed three key themes: communication, self-direction and personalised lifestyle modifications. Communication gaps among healthcare providers and towards the patient led to inefficiencies in care delivery. Although self-direction in care was encouraged, maintaining lifestyle changes proved difficult due to limited personalised support and motivation. Strengthening communication and providing tailored, sustainable lifestyle interventions are crucial to enhancing patient satisfaction, promoting enduring behavioural changes and achieving better cardiac outcomes. The patient journey method offers valuable insights into patient needs, facilitating the collaborative, integrated care improvements.