Family support for people with cardiovascular diseases In the PHC of Río Negro, Chile. An emerging public health problem

Abstract

Introduction: This study describes family support for patients enrolled in the Cardiovascular Health Program at primary healthcare facilities in Río Negro district.

Materials and methods: Qualitative, exploratory-descriptive study. It is mixed in terms of data collection techniques with a non-probabilistic sampling by convenience and analysis based on Grounded Theory.

Results: Patients who are being treated for cardiovascular diseases are often people with low levels of education, who belong to households with lower incomes and are more socially vulnerable. They don’t necessarily have family support, but manage to achieve adequate levels of cardiovascular compensation. The study shows that this type of long-term illness affects the progression of the life cycle, family structure and functionality, which in turn generates significant impact on the physical and psychosocial health of the primary caregiver.

Discussion: After conducting our research, we found that family support plays a crucial role in the beliefs, knowledge, and emotional well-being of family members dealing with chronic cardiovascular conditions. Consequently, both sociodemographic characteristics and family functionality are relevant areas that must be incorporated into care, collaborative care and self-management of symptoms, treatment and changes in the lifestyle of patients under control for cardiovascular diseases.