Impact and Costs Benefit Comparison of the Healthy Beat Curriculum: CD-ROM versus Live Presentation Formats

In spite of new insights into heart disease and increased availability of multimedia education, the number of programs available through self-paced compact disc (CD) or Web Course Tools is still minimal. Our objective was to create an independent learning course to decrease risks of cardiovascular disease, which would be comparable to traditional live instruction and available through CD or Web Course Tools. Both instructional methods resulted in positive heart healthy outcomes (weight, cholesterol, nutrition knowledge and behavior). Participants (n=118) over 18 years of age were recruited. The cost effectiveness of cardiovascular curriculum in both traditional (live teacher) and self-paced CD format was determined. After initial equipment purchases, The Healthy Beat program can be self sustaining with an enrollment fee of $60 per participant; an inexpensive option for cardiovascular education, which can reduce medication costs, and potentially prevent or lessen the mortality and morbidity of cardiovascular events. Funding Disclosure: The Healthy Beat research and program were funded through a CURI, Community/University Research Initiative grant.