Research ChallengeCurrent Grants
2026/27
Calvin Ngai
Social Support Limitations in Advanced Heart Failure Therapies: Patient Experiences of Recovery After LVAD or Heart Transplantation
Advanced cardiac therapies, such as heart transplantation and mechanical circulatory support, can help people with severe heart failure live longer and feel better. These treatments also require close follow-up, complex medications, and strong day-to-day support after surgery. Current guidelines recognize social support as an important part of heart transplant care (Peled et al., 2024).
This study will explore how social support shapes recovery after heart transplant or LVAD surgery, including what kinds of support patients find most helpful and where gaps remain. The findings may help improve care planning and support services for future patients.
Primary Investigator: Calvin Ngai
Co-investigators: Mikaela Kroeker and Wynne Chiu
Patient Partner: Eunice Barriga