Patient-reported outcomes and perceived medication confidence as predictors of healthcare utilization among adults with cardiovascular risk factors

This study examined the association between patient-reported outcomes (PROs), medication-taking confidence, sociodemographic characteristics, and the frequency of 90-day hospital and emergency department (ED) visits among individuals with cardiovascular risk factors. A cross-sectional survey was administered to adults ≥ 18 years-old with hypertension, hyperlipidemia, or type-2 diabetes. Of the 1495 questionnaires distributed, 1275 were completed and included in the analysis. Bivariate ordered probit and ordinal logistic regression models were used to evaluate associations between patient-reported variables and healthcare utilization. Among respondents, 54.1% identified as female and 38% as male. Racial representation included 34.9% Black, 40.4% White, 8.9% Asian, 3.7% American Indian, 4.3% Hawaiian, and 8.5% identifying with other groups. Patient-reported variables-including medication knowledge and perceived confidence-were significantly associated with the frequency of ED and hospital visits (p < 0.001). Survey respondents who 'somewhat agreed' or were 'neutral' about their confidence in understanding their medications were more likely to report at least one ED visit within 90 days. Also, individuals who reported a history of smoking or heart disease were more likely to report higher ED visits and hospitalizations, respectively (p < 0.001). These findings highlight the potential value of patient-reported outcomes as indicators associated with preventable hospitalizations and ED visits.