Dr. Habib Khan & Research Team

•April 16, 2024

RAFT – P&A Study, London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute

For Canadians living with atrial fibrillation and heart failure, managing daily symptoms can be a constant challenge. But a groundbreaking study – RAFT-P&A for short – led by Dr. Habib Khan, Associate Scientist at the London Health Sciences Centre Research Institute (LHSCRI) and Cardiologist at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), could change that.

With a $2 million Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) grant, Dr. Khan and his team are set to investigate whether using pacemakers to regulate heart rate and rhythm could offer a better solution than traditional medications alone. The goal is to help patients not just survive atrial fibrillation and heart failure but thrive – enabling them to live more active and fulfilling lives.

Patient experience is at the heart of this research, with Dr. Khan and his team partnering with patients and caregivers from the outset.

“I think many patients want be part of the research, treatment and recovery process as equal partners. When this happens it leads to great results for everyone.” – David, RAFT-P&A Patient Partner

Deb, RAFT-P&A Patient Partner and person living with chronic Atrial Fibrillation, shares her perspective on the significance of engaging patients early in the research process:

“I believe that engaging patients as partners as early as possible in the research cycle — from designing the research question to disseminating and communicating findings — is crucial for achieving better outcomes that will meaningfully impact patients, community members, and caregivers. Patient partners ensure that the research remains relevant and that the goals and outcomes align with the priorities of those affected by the condition.”

Deb also emphasizes how the study prioritizes quality of life—a concern Dr. Khan identified through previous focus groups and discussions.

“I sincerely believe that participants in this study will experience an improved quality of life as a result.“

A heartfelt thank you to Dr. Khan and team for their commitment to improving the patient experience in heart failure care. Alice, RAFT P&A Patient Partner, says it best:

“Taking time and effort to thank those health professionals who are showing expertise as well as compassion will only serve to increase that going forward.“