Family presence and participation during medical visits of heart failure patients: An analysis of survey and audiotaped communication data

Abstract Objective To describe the frequency, roles, and utility of family companion involvement in the care of patients with Heart Failure (HF) care and to examine the association between audiotaped patient, companion, and provider communication behaviors. Methods We collected survey data and audiotaped a single medical visit for 93 HF patients (36 brought a companion into the examination room) and their cardiology provider. Communication data was analyzed using the Roter Interaction Analysis System. Results There were 32% more positive rapport-building statements (p Conclusions Our findings are mixed regarding the benefits of accompaniment for facilitating patient-provider communication based on survey and audiotaped data. Practice implications Strategies to enhance engagement during visits, such as pre-visit question prompt lists, may be beneficial.