An assessment of evidence to inform best practice for the communication of acute venous thromboembolism diagnosis: a scoping review

Background: Physician communication with patients is a key aspect of excellent care. Scant evidence exists to inform best practice for physician communication in patients diagnosed with pulmonary embolism and deep vein thrombosis, collectively referred to as venous thromboembolism (VTE). Objectives: The aim of this study was to summarize the existing literature on best practices for communication between healthcare providers and patients newly diagnosed with VTE. Methods: We performed a scoping review to report existing literature on best practices for physician-patient communication and the diagnosis and management of acute VTE. Manuscripts on communication between healthcare professionals and patients presenting with acute VTE and acute vascular disease presentations that included atrial fibrillation and acute coronary syndrome were identified. Two authors independently reviewed studies for eligibility and a consensus determined article inclusion. The manuscripts were further categorized into 2 categories: best practices in communication and unmet needs in communication. Data aggregation was achieved by a modified thematic synthesis. Results: Among 345 initial publications, 22 manuscripts met inclusion criteria, with 11 addressing VTE, 5 pulmonary embolism, 4 deep vein thrombosis, 1 atrial fibrillation, and 1 acute coronary syndrome. Eleven manuscripts addressed communication of VTE diagnosis, while 12 focused on communication of VTE treatment. Eleven manuscripts identified unmet communication needs, and 14 addressed best practices. Our review showed that good communication enhanced satisfaction, while suboptimal communication was associated with emotional, cognitive, behavioral, social, and health systems adverse effects. Conclusion: Scant literature guides best practices for communicating VTE diagnosis and treatment. Further research is necessary to establish practices for improving communication with VTE patients.