Arthritis therapies for persons with hypertrophic obstructive cardio myopathy and AED/pacemaker implant

Briefly describe a specific question, or set of related questions, about a health care test or treatment that this program should consider.: Arthritis therapies for persons with hypertrophic obstructive cardio myopathy and AED/pacemaker implant
Does your question include a comparison of different health care approaches? (If no, your topic will still be considered.): no
If yes, explain the specific technologies, devices, drugs, or interventions you would like to see compared:
What patients or group(s) of patients does your question apply to? (Please include specific details such as age range, gender, coexisting diagnoses, and indications for therapy.): All groups but especially men & women over age 60
Are there subgroups of patients that your question might apply to? (For example, an ethnic group, stage or severity of a disease.)
Describe the health-related benefits you are interested in. (For example, improvements in patient symptoms or problems from treatment or diagnosis.): Improved quality of life, less pain and stiffness
Describe any health-related risks, side effects, or harms that you are concerned about.: Drug effects on heart patients, heart rhythm issues

Does your question include a health care drug, intervention, device, or technology available (or likely to be available) in the U.S.?

yes

Which priority area(s) and population(s) does this topic apply to? (check all that apply)

EHC Priority Conditions (updated in 2008)

AHRQ Priority Populations

Low income groups
Minority groups
Women
Elderly
Individuals with special health care needs, including individuals with disabilities or who need chronic care or end-of-life health care

Federal Health Care Program

Describe why this topic is important.: Difficulty of medical relief from arthritis if you also have heart disease such as HOCM.
What specifically motivated you to ask this question? (For example, you are developing a clinical guideline, working with a policy with large uncertainty about the appropriate approach, costly intervention, new research you have read, items in the media you may have seen, a clinical practice dilemma you know of, etc.): Diagnosed 20 years ago with HOCM Had great success with Verapamil then Atenolol. In April 2011 I had acute myocardial infarction, with no lasting evidence of a heart attack. Mayo Arizona implanted defibrillator/pacemaker for "insurance". Am doing GREAT but knee, shoulder & thumb arthritis are still a concern. Not taking regular meds for arthritis,just exercise and keeping weight down.
Does your question represent uncertainty for clinicians and/or policy-makers? (For example, variations in clinical care, controversy in what constitutes appropriate clinical care, or a policy decision.): no
If yes, please explain:

How will an answer to your research question be used or help inform decisions for you or your group?: Offer options for medical relief for chronic condition
Describe the timeframe in which an answer to your question is needed.
Describe any health disparities, inequities, or impact on vulnerable populations your question applies to.

Other Information About You: (optional)

Please choose a description that best describes your role or perspective: (you may select more than one category if appropriate): Offer options for medical relief for chronic condition

Are you making a suggestion as an individual or on behalf of an organization?: Individual

Please tell us how you heard about the Effective Health Care Program: Internet

Effective Health Care Program