Mapping the Cardiometabolic Patient Experience and Self-Care Behaviors to Inform Design, Implementation, and Persistent Use of Digital Health Care Solutions: Mixed Methods Study

Abstract

Background Cardiometabolic conditions including acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) require comprehensive care and patient engagement in self-care behaviors, and the drivers of those behaviors at the individual and health system level are still poorly understood. Objective We aim to gain insights into self-care behaviors of individuals with cardiometabolic conditions. Methods A convenience sample of 98 adult patients with ACS and T2D was recruited in the United States, Germany, and Taiwan to participate in a mixed methods study using ethnographic methods. All participants completed 7-day web-based diaries tracking their level of engagement, and 48 completed 90-minute web-based semistructured interviews between February 4, 2021, and March 27, 2021, focusing on themes including moments of engagement. Qualitative analysis identified factors influencing self-care practices and a Patient Mind States Model prototype. Results Patient reports indicate that many patients feel social pressure to adhere to treatment. Patients’ experience can be understood within 5 categories defined in terms of their degree of engagement and adherence (“ignoring,” “struggling,” “juggling,” “controlling,” and “reframing”). Conclusions For people living with ACS and T2D, the self-care journey is defined by patterns of patient experiences, which can identify areas that tailored digital health care interventions may play a meaningful role.