Implementation of a self-determination based clinical program to reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

Health behaviors are the cornerstone of cardiovascular risk reduction but change is challenging and maintenance is uncommon. The use of Self-Determination Theory (SDT) can promote long-term change however the pathway is uncertain related to cardiovascular risk reduction. A multi-disciplinary clinical team trained in SDT counseled 294 individuals with high cardiovascular risk. Our participants had a significant decrease in cholesterol as well as a significant increase healthy diet and motivation measures. Autonomous motivation was a critical element in the pathways. We demonstrated that a SDT team-based clinical intervention can promote cardiovascular risk reduction through autonomous motivation.

Is it time to taper that opioid? (And how best to do it).

This guide will help you to determine when to start an opioid taper and how to do so while maintaining pain control and minimizing the risk that the taper will fail.