An exploration of the barriers which contribute to a delay in heart failure patients seeking medical help

Abstract

Background: Many patients worldwide suffer from heart failure, it is a chronic disease that has a great impact on patients' quality of life. Many previous studies show that there is a delay among patients with heart failure when it comes to treatment-seeking. Aim: To explore the barriers that influence patients with heart failure seeking medical assistance.

Methodology: A systematic search was performed using CINAHAL complete, PubMed, Medline Complete, and Scopus databases. The studies were included if they met the following criteria: primary research published from 2011 to 2021 and written in the English language. Studies were included if participants were diagnosed with heart failure with an age range of 18 to 90 years old. All studies were critically reviewed using the appropriate critical appraisal skills programme (CASP) tool.

Results: Nine studies were included in this systematic literature. The papers had an international focus, were quantitative and qualitative studies and explored the barriers faced by patients with heart failure, seeking treatment. Results of the review were discussed under five themes: lack of knowledge, mental health and psychological wellbeing; distance and accessibility to healthcare services; previous hospital experience, Corona virus pandemic. The results showed that patient’s cognitive ability must be considered. Distance from the healthcare provider impacted on patient’s accessibility to services. The impact of the corona virus pandemic instilled 10 fear within patients with many avoiding or delaying attending hospitals or seeking help. Importantly a good relationship with the healthcare professionals impacted positively on patient’s decision-making ability

Conclusions: This review highlighted key information regarding why heart failure patients delay or avoid seeking medical help or treatment. There is a clear need for health education and promotion with patients and healthcare staff. Empowering patients to make good decisions related to their signs and symptoms is paramount in instilling confidence.