Computerization of Medical Practices for the Enhancement of Therapeutic Effectiveness (COMPETE III)

Vascular diseases (cardiac events, strokes, peripheral vascular disease) remain the number one killer in Canadian society as well as the leading cause of hospitalization and days spent in the hospital. A 1996 estimate placed Ontario's vascular disease financial burden at $5.5 billion in total. Any intervention which lowers vascular risk, will have a direct impact on the quantity and quality of life and costs of health care. Further integration of health professionals in teams focused on chronic disease management in individuals and populations is also ripe for further evaluation. Increased collaboration between family physicians, physician specialists, nurse practitioners, and pharmacists are generally thought to be beneficial for patient outcomes, but the literature is inconclusive and their cost-effectiveness is unproven. In addition, combining centralized electronic up-to-date information on the patient's status with evidence-based recommendations and the ability to communicate either electronically or by phone is expected to result in improved access to care, quality of care, continuity of care and increase cost-effectiveness of chronic disease management. COMPETE III builds on the researchers' previous work to study an electronic vascular tracking and decision support system shared by patients and their physicians, combined with a clinical care coordinator and automated telephone support system. The researchers are evaluating its impact on vascular risk processes and outcomes, perceived usefulness, ease of use, need for improvement, medication adherence, quality of life and patient goals and motivation. Study hypothesis: Patients at increased risk of vascular events, if connected with their family physicians, medical specialists and care coordinator via an electronic network (Web, fax and telephone) sharing an intensive tracking, advice and support program, will lower their vascular risk more than those in usual care.