Creating a Veteran-focused approach for making decisions about heart devices

Development of a Veteran-Centered Approach to ICD Decision-making in the VA

NIH-funded research VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System · NIH-10934508

This study is all about helping Veterans make informed choices about getting implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs) to manage their heart rhythms, by making sure they understand the benefits and risks, and feel comfortable discussing their personal values and preferences with their doctors.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVA Eastern Colorado Health Care System NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10934508 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop a patient-centered approach for Veterans when deciding on the use of implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), which are devices that help manage dangerous heart rhythms. The project will focus on ensuring that Veterans are fully informed about the benefits, risks, and psychological impacts of ICDs, promoting shared decision-making that aligns with their personal values and treatment preferences. By addressing common misconceptions and improving communication between patients and healthcare providers, the research seeks to enhance the overall decision-making process regarding ICD implantation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are Veterans who are considering or have been recommended for ICD implantation due to heart rhythm issues.

Not a fit: Patients who are not Veterans or those who do not have heart rhythm issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-informed decisions for Veterans regarding their heart health, ultimately improving their quality of life and treatment outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have highlighted the need for improved patient understanding and shared decision-making in similar contexts, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.