The effect of a Web-based telemedicine system on patient-provider communication for patients at risk for cardiovascular disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the United States. Health communication strategies can be used to educate patients about improving communication with their provider and reducing their risk of heart disease. Telemedicine and the Internet have been used for patient education and chronic disease management. This study investigated the impact of a telemedicine system on patient-provider communication for patients at risk for cardiovascular disease.;Eighty-six patients enrolled in a larger study conducted by Temple's Telemedicine Research Center (TTRC), participated in this sub-study. A pretest-posttest, case-control design was used and quantitative data were collected using the PEQ at baseline and four months later. Quantitative and qualitative data were collected at four months using the PVEW. Descriptive statistics, Pearson Correlations, and Repeated Measures ANOVA analyses were conducted using SPSS Version 14. Qualitatiave data were summarized from common responses.;The primary analyses did not yield significant results. However, responses to open-ended statements highlighted the value of using an educational website to improve cardiovascular risk and patient-provider communication. Secondary analyses revealed that patients who made more frequent visits to the doctor experienced more communication barriers. However, patients satisfied with their communication experiences had fewer communication barriers with their providers.