Enhancing Patient-Centered Care for Older African American Patients with Cardiovascular Comorbidities

Deborah Ejem, Ph.D.
University of Alabama at Birmingham

Project Goals and Relevance

Project Objectives:

This project pilots the Patient Priorities Care Approach (PPC) to align healthcare with the goals and preferences of older African American patients managing cardiovascular comorbidities.

Target Population:

Older African American patients with cardiovascular diseases receiving care at Cooper Green Mercy Health Services in Birmingham, Alabama.

Relevance to Community:

African Americans face higher rates of cardiovascular diseases, influenced by factors that impact healthcare access and delivery. This project focuses on shared decision-making to personalize patient care based on individual preferences.

Intervention/Approach

Strategies Used:

Community Relevance:

The study integrates patient feedback and emphasizes personalized communication to ensure care plans align with the values and needs of African American patients.

Expected Outcomes

• Patient Empowerment: Patients feel more engaged in their care and report improved satisfaction.
• Better Health Outcomes: Improved management of cardiovascular comorbidities, including reduced hospitalizations.
• Scalable Model: A refined PPC model for broader implementation in communities facing barriers to care.

Community Action Tips

Communicate with Providers: Discuss your health priorities and preferences with your care team. (source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ). “Questions to Ask Your Doctor.” AHRQ Questions for Providers)

Prioritize Your Health: Focus on one or two health changes most important to you, like blood pressure control or physical activity. (source: American Heart Association. “Life’s Simple 7 for Heart Health.” AHA Life’s Simple 7)

Involve Family: Include loved ones in conversations about your healthcare priorities. (source: National Institute on Aging (NIA). “Communicating with Family About Health.” NIA Family Communication)

Recruitment Details

Participation Information:

The study is recruiting older (65+) African American patients with cardiovascular comorbidities.

Eligibility Criteria:

Participants must receive care at Cooper Green Mercy Health Services and be willing to engage in shared decision-making.

Contact Information:

For more information, please contact the research team at 205-934-9247

Not eligible? Learn about the American Heart Association’s Patient-Centered Care Toolkit to improve conversations with your doctor.