A journey mapping study of health management in young and middle-aged patients with coronary heart disease

Background Coronary heart disease (CHD) is increasingly prevalent among young and middle-aged populations, posing a significant threat to their productivity and quality of life due to premature morbidity. Unlike older adults, this demographic faces unique challenges, including prolonged disease trajectories, high-intensity work pressures, family responsibilities, and the psychosocial burden of adapting to a chronic illness during a pivotal stage of life. Current health management models often adopt a standardized approach that fails to account for the specific developmental needs, fragmented care transitions, and evolving self-management behaviors characteristic of this age group. Consequently, there is a critical gap in understanding the nuanced experiences of these patients as they navigate the continuum from initial diagnosis to long-term rehabilitation. Capturing their holistic health management journey is essential to developing patient-centered interventions that address their distinct physical, psychological, and social needs. Objective This study aims to map the health management journey of young and middle-aged patients with coronary heart disease, identifying key transitions and unmet needs to inform targeted nursing interventions. Methods Using qualitative research methods, semi-structured interviews were conducted with 16 young and middle-aged CHD patients from august to december 2025. Content analysis was employed for data processing, and a patient journey mapping was constructed. Results Based on the treatment timeline, patient health management needs were categorized into 38 themes across three dimensions: tasks, emotions, and pain points. These included symptom recognition and attribution, lack of health literacy, lifestyle reshaping, and workplace health management practices. The study found that patients generally exhibited insufficient awareness of long-term disease risks, difficulties in modifying lifestyles, and pressure related to social reintegration, which collectively formed gaps in health management. Conclusion The health management journey mapping systematically reveals the complex experiences of young and middle-aged CHD patients from screening and diagnosis to long-term management. Disease management is not only regarded as a necessary means to maintain health but is also deeply integrated into their personal identity and social roles. Future interventions for young and middle-aged patients with chronic diseases should focus on key stages of the journey mapping, providing developmental and integrated support.