What variability in complexity and depth of patients understanding of their diagnosis exists?
Most patients showed poor knowledge and misunderstanding of their condition and its implications, including treatments, their importance, side effects and limitations. However, other patients showed a high level of interest in their illness, were proactive in seeking information (e.g. online), knew how to manage their condition, and were well informed and equipped for informed exchanges with healthcare professionals about heart failure. In one study the authors noted, however, that this was an unusual group of younger patients and/or those with a background in health.