Regular Doctor-Patient Communication Works for Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease

A new study at the Temple University suggests that communication between a patient and their primary care provider works for prevention of cardiovascular disease, whether it’s in the office, or over the Internet.

Researchers examined the prevention of heart disease in at-risk, but otherwise healthy patients in rural and urban settings through frequent patient-doctor communications. The patients and doctors interacted via an internet-based health reporting system in conjunction with regular clinic visits. The findings revealed that participants had significantly reduced blood pressure, lipids and cardiovascular disease risk scores, and were able to walk farther distances.

The study was presented at the American College of Cardiology’s annual meeting on March 30.