Detecting and Managing Atrial Fibrillation in Black, Asian and other Ethnic Groups in Areas of Deprivation
We were commissioned by the Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care System (ICS) to undertake an independent evaluation of their Innovation and Healthcare Inequalities Programme (InHIP).
The programme aimed to improve detection and management of Atrial Fibrillation*, with a focus on engaging with ethnically diverse communities. The work was undertaken because Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) Prevent Data shows that ethnically diverse groups are less likely to be appropriately managed.
*Atrial Fibrillation is a heart condition that causes an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm.
What we found
Our evaluation identified examples of good practice, as well as learnings, challenges and recommendations that could be taken forward.
Partnership working, community outreach and holding events were identified as key to the project’s success.
At the events, not only were some cases of cardiovascular disease detected, but they provided a chance to share preventative information and educate people about cardiovascular disease, navigating the NHS and healthy lifestyle advice.
Additional learnings to take forward include:
- Providing an interpreter or translator at events to enable participation from people whose first language isn’t English.
- Adopting a holistic approach, focusing on health, wellbeing and lifestyle - rather than a single issue or condition.
- Providing creative and interactive events to encourage attendance and ensuring events are physically accessible.
- Stronger promotion and advertisement of events – to ensure enough time, resource and capacity to undertake projects.
“These findings will help us tackle cardiovascular disease in at risk communities and engage with diverse communities regarding health issues that affect them. In partnership with local stakeholders, we’ll continue to increase awareness about working together with partners and communities to achieve better outcomes for all.”
