Patient digital self-screening tool for familial hypercholesterolaemia: A pilot study
Publication Details
Hespe, C.,
Woods, M.,
Dababneh, E.,
Jennings, L.,
Jeong, D.,
Giskes, K.,
&
Eid, S.
(2024).
Patient digital self-screening tool for familial hypercholesterolaemia: A pilot study.
Australian Journal of General Practice, 53 (12), 591-597.
Abstract
Background and objectives
Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a genetic condition contributing to premature cardiovascular disease. Currently, general practitioners (GPs) do not proactively screen for the condition. This study implemented and evaluated a digital FH self-screening questionnaire administered in general practice.Methods
Patients aged 18–60 years in four general practices were sent an FH screening questionnaire via SMS prior to their GP appointment. The survey identified at-risk patients, and results were exported to the patients’ electronic medical record.Results
In all, 1258 patients were sent the survey; 234 (18.6%) interacted with it, 137 completed self-screening and nine patients were identified as high risk. Self-screening took 3.5 minutes (on average) and was positively evaluated by patients.Discussion
This proof-of-concept study identified that FH self-screening can be implemented, but further refinements to the self-screening method and interface might be required for greater patient engagement. FH self-screening has the potential to increase FH detection and reduce preventable cardiovascular disease.Link to Publisher Version (URL)
