Date of Award

4-24-2020

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (MMSc)

First Advisor

Rachel Lampert, MD, FACC

Abstract

Non-valvular atrial fibrillation, the most common cardiac arrhythmia presenting in the emergency department, is associated with an increased risk of ischemic strokes and other life-threatening events. Because of this, current guidelines recommend therapy with direct oral anticoagulants, which have been shown to be as effective if not safer than warfarin. However, medication adherence failure, which has been shown to increase rates of thromboembolic events, remains significantly high, increasing morbidity and mortality. In this randomized control study, we will determine whether a short-term follow-up appointment improves adherence to direct oral anticoagulants in patients with non-valvular atrial fibrillation. Specifically, we propose randomizing patients to a 1-week appointment after hospital discharge to address multiple factors affecting adherence. This study may provide evidence for an outpatient protocol aimed at improving medication compliance and reduction of ischemic events.

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