The Dyslipidemia CPG Work Group, with support from Lewin, developed a set of questions to help guide the focus group. The focus group facilitator led the discussion using the previously prepared questions as a general guide to elicit the patient s perspectives about their treatment and overall care. Given the limited time and the range of interests of the focus group participants, not all of the listed questions were addressed. B. Patient Focus Group Findings a. Patients stressed the importance of lifestyle changes and felt these were the most important ways to reduce cardiovascular risk and improve their health All three participants understood that eating a healthy diet would reduce their CV risk and, for that reason, several implemented comprehensive dietary changes. Two participants took supplements that were not recommended by their provider either in addition to, or instead of, pharmaceuticals. Two participants started exercising regularly after learning of their health issues, and they reported feeling better afterward. All three participants noted their risk of CVD has not impacted their quality of life. b. Participants stressed the importance of patient education, fully understanding their CV risk, and learning about the available treatment options. Participants were highly motivated to manage their CV risk. All three participants felt that learning of their health risks CV or otherwise motivated them to take personal responsibility for their health. Participants use various mediums to learn about lipids and CV risk, including websites, family and friends, and providers external to the VA/DoD health care systems. Two participants found visual aids that explain the benefits and harms of statins useful, but thought these aids would be confusing in the absence of a provider s explanation. All three participants stated they were more likely to adhere to prescribed regimens if they had a strong relationship with their provider. 