Derivation of Patient-Defined Adverse Cardiovascular and Noncardiovascular Events Through a Modified Delphi Process

Key Points Question Which adverse cardiovascular and noncardiovascular events are most relevant to patients? Findings In this qualitative study of patients with advanced cardiovascular diseases and their caregivers and clinicians, a consensus-based definition of patient-defined adverse cardiovascular and noncardiovascular events (PACE) was reached using a modified Delphi process; the definition included severe stroke necessitating hospitalization for 14 days or more or inpatient rehabilitation, ventilator dependence, new onset or worsening heart failure, nursing home admission, and new onset dialysis. Meaning Given the paucity of patient-centered outcomes in cardiovascular research, the concept of PACE may be applied in future epidemiological and intervention studies to ensure that management of cardiovascular disease is founded on outcomes that are important and relevant to patients, caregivers, and clinicians.