Planning Telehealth for Older Adults With Atrial Fibrillation in Rural Communities: Understanding Stakeholder Perspectives

Older adults with atrial fibrillation (AF) in rural communities have less access to cardiac specialty care. Telehealth offers a viable approach to provide cardiac care, yet little is known about patients’ and providers’ views on telehealth’s potential to support rural patients with AF. This qualitative descriptive study examines patient and health providers’ perspectives, an important first step in planning a telehealth initiative. Eight patients with AF, along with one partner from rural communities, were recruited through an urban-based AF clinic. Five providers were recruited through professional practice leads in the health region. Semistructured telephone interviews were conducted with both stakeholder groups. The overriding theme was variability in patient and provider receptiveness to telehealth. Receptiveness reflected differences in past experience with telehealth, in perceived adequacy of rural health services, and in perceived gaps in AF care. These are important considerations in planning effective and sustainable telehealth in rural communities.