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Savoldelli A, Regazzoni V, Rizzola G, Giudici V, Vitali A, Regazzoni D, Rizzi C, Viscardi L. Telemedicine and Remote Management of Patients with Heart Failure: From Theory to Daily Practice. Telemed J E Health 2024. [PMID: 38963767 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2024.0067] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/06/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Heart failure (HF) is responsible for a high number of hospitalizations, caused by a progressive worsening quality of life. Telemedicine allows for better management of patients' complex conditions, improving the care released. However, the risk of remaining at a testing stage often limits the integration of remote care in daily pathways for HF patients. The aim of this study is to outline the steps needed to integrate telemedicine activities into ordinary HF clinic practices. This methodology is applied to observe activities and trend improvements over a 12-month routine phase. Method: Three steps have been defined for an efficient introduction of remote care services in ordinary activities, integrating them with traditional in-person care: (i) introduction of temporary telemedicine projects, (ii) systematization of telemedicine pathways, and (iii) evaluation of monitoring phase. Observational data have been collected from structured interviews to show the rate of telemedicine activities achieved in clinical practice over the last year. Results: The methodology has been proposed in the HF clinic of the Italian hospital ASST Bergamo Est. After an initial testing phase, in which usability and user experience have been tested, four different remote activities were added: (i) telemonitoring for patients with an implantable device, (ii) follow-up televisits, (iii) nursing telephone support, and (iv) high-intensity telesurveillance pathways for patients after an HF acute event. During the last year, 218 telemonitoring pathways, 75 televisits, 500 telephone calls, and nine telesurveillance pathways have been performed. Success rates were high, and patients gave positive feedback. Conclusion: By integrating multiple telemedicine activities, it has been possible to better manage complex patients, keep track of disease progression, and improve their participation in care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Savoldelli
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Dalmine (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Valentina Regazzoni
- Cardiologia Riabilitativa, azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Bergamo Est, Seriate (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Ginevra Rizzola
- Cardiologia Riabilitativa, azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Bergamo Est, Seriate (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Vittorio Giudici
- Cardiologia Riabilitativa, azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Bergamo Est, Seriate (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Andrea Vitali
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Dalmine (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Daniele Regazzoni
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Dalmine (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Caterina Rizzi
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Dalmine (Bergamo), Italy
| | - Luigina Viscardi
- Cardiologia Riabilitativa, azienda Socio-Sanitaria Territoriale Bergamo Est, Seriate (Bergamo), Italy
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Eynan R, Petrella R, Forchuk C, Zwarenstein M, Calvin J. Randomised pilot study comparing a coach to SMARTPhone reminders to aid the management of heart failure (HF) patients: humans or machines. BMJ Open Qual 2024; 13:e002753. [PMID: 38955396 PMCID: PMC11217996 DOI: 10.1136/bmjoq-2024-002753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Ambulatory management of congestive heart failure (HF) continues to be a challenging clinical problem. Recent studies have focused on the role of HF clinics, nurse practitioners and disease management programmes to reduce HF readmissions. This pilot study is a pragmatic factorial study comparing a coach intervention, a SMARTPHONE REMINDER system intervention and BOTH interventions combined to Treatment as USUAL (TAU). We determined that both modalities were acceptable to patients prior to randomisation. Fifty-four patients were randomised to the four groups. The COACH group had no readmissions for HF 6 months after enrolment compared with 18% for the SMARTPHONE REMINDER Group, 8% for the BOTH intervention group and 13% for TAU. Medium-to-high medication adherence was maintained in all four groups although sodium consumption was lower at 3 months for the COACH and combined (BOTH) groups. This pilot study suggests a beneficial effect on rehospitalisation with the use of support measures including coaches and telephone reminders that needs confirmation in a larger trial.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rahel Eynan
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Robert Petrella
- Faculty of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Cheryl Forchuk
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Merrick Zwarenstein
- Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - James Calvin
- Department of Medicine, Western University Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, Ontario, Canada
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Bonometti F, Bernocchi P, Vitali A, Savoldelli A, Rizzi C, Scalvini S. Usability of a continuous oxygen saturation device for home telemonitoring. Digit Health 2023; 9:20552076231194547. [PMID: 37588158 PMCID: PMC10426309 DOI: 10.1177/20552076231194547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/27/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The emergency for the COVID-19 pandemic has led to greater use of home telemonitoring devices. The aim of this study was to assess the usability of continuous home-monitoring care with an oxygen saturation device on post-COVID-19 patients. Method The system consists of a digital continuous pulse oximeter and a smartphone with an App, which were provided to patients. A survey composed of a standard Post-Study System Usability Questionnaire, and a satisfaction questionnaire was exploited to conduct a usability and feasibility analysis of the service. Results A total of 29 patients (17.2% female) with a mean age of 65 ± 11.5 years were enrolled: 20 patients were smartphone users (69%) with a mean age of 60.2 ± 9.5 years, and 9 patients (31%) did not own a smartphone (mean age 76.8 ± 5.9). The monitoring period was 1 month: a total of 444 recordings were conducted, 15 recordings per patient averagely. In total, 82% of the recordings performed did not require any intervention, while 18% led to the production of a report and subsequent intervention by a nurse who verified, together with the specialist, the need to intervene (i.e. the patient accessed the clinic for medical control and/or modification of oxygen therapy). A total of 17 patients compiled a usability questionnaire. The service was perceived as useful and well-structured, although it often required caregiver support. Conclusions Using continuous home-monitoring care with an oxygen saturation device seems feasible and useful for patients who could be followed at home avoiding going back to the hospital every time a trend oximetry is needed. Further improvements in connections, data flow processes, and simplifications, based on patients' feedback, are needed to scale up the service.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Bonometti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Continuity of Care Service of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
| | - Palmira Bernocchi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Continuity of Care Service of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
| | - Andrea Vitali
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Anna Savoldelli
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Caterina Rizzi
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Simonetta Scalvini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS, Continuity of Care Service of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
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Vitali A, Ghidotti A, Savoldelli A, Bonometti F, Rizzi C, Bernocchi P, Borghi G, Scalvini S. Definition of a Method for the Evaluation of Telemedicine Platforms in the Italian Context. Telemed J E Health 2022; 29:769-777. [PMID: 36206021 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2022.0326] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The COVID-19 outbreak led to the diffusion of several telemedicine solutions. The choice of the correct platform is crucial for ensuring the release of effective assistance. However, there is a lack of an objective method for the assessment of technical features. Objective: This study proposes a methodology for the evaluation of functional requirements of telemedicine platforms. This approach also permits the comparison of solutions in the Italian market by means of defined parameters, thus directing the choice of health care professionals. Methods: The study is divided into three phases. First, a mapping of the telemedicine platforms operating in Italy is performed. Then, the available platforms are selected based on the offered telemedicine activity. Finally, a method for evaluating the investigated platforms is defined. Results: Thirty-three (n = 33) technological systems were identified through an accurate investigation on the web and interviews with IT companies. Fifteen parameters were defined and organized into three categories: (1) usability of the telemedicine platform, (2) security, and (3) technological and organizational aspects. A score between 1 and 4 was assigned to each parameter, proportionally to the completeness of the platform. In particular, 62.96% of platforms reached an average score between 3.01 and 4 points; 33.33% of them had scores between 2.01 and 3, while the remaining 3.70% of solutions obtained a result between 1.01 and 2. Conclusions: The study provides an evaluation approach that is easily usable by health professionals to select the most suitable platform. The number of solutions and quality of information could be updated to obtain a complete tool.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrea Vitali
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Anna Ghidotti
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Anna Savoldelli
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Francesco Bonometti
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Continuity of Care (Telemedicine Service) of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
| | - Caterina Rizzi
- Department of Management, Information and Production Engineering, University of Bergamo, Bergamo, Italy
| | - Palmira Bernocchi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Continuity of Care (Telemedicine Service) of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
| | - Gabriella Borghi
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Continuity of Care (Telemedicine Service) of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
| | - Simonetta Scalvini
- Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri IRCCS Continuity of Care (Telemedicine Service) of the Institute of Lumezzane, Brescia, Italy
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Perez H, Miguel-Cruz A, Daum C, Comeau AK, Rutledge E, King S, Liu L. Technology Acceptance of a Mobile Application to Support Family Caregivers in a Long-Term Care Facility. Appl Clin Inform 2022; 13:1181-1193. [PMID: 36257602 PMCID: PMC9771689 DOI: 10.1055/a-1962-5583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/15/2022] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Family caregivers are unpaid individuals who provide care to people with chronic conditions or disabilities. Family caregivers generally do not have formal care-related training. However, they are an essential source of care. Mobile technologies can benefit family caregivers by strengthening communication with care staff and supporting the monitoring of care recipients. OBJECTIVE We conducted a mixed-method study to evaluate the acceptance and usability of a mobile technology called the Smart Care System. METHODS Using convenience sampling, we recruited 27 family caregivers to evaluate the mobile Smart Care System (mSCS). In the quantitative phase, we administered initial and exit questionnaires based on the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology. In the qualitative phase, we conducted focus groups to explore family caregivers' perspectives and opinions on the usability of the mSCS. With the quantitative data, we employed univariate, bivariate, and partial least squares analyses, and we used content analysis with the qualitative data. RESULTS We observed a high level of comfort using digital technologies among participants. On average, participants were caregivers for an average of 6.08 years (standard deviation [SD] = 6.63), and their mean age was 56.65 years (SD = 11.62). We observed a high level of technology acceptance among family caregivers (7.69, SD = 2.11). Behavioral intention (β = 0.509, p-value = 0.004) and facilitating conditions (β = 0.310, p-value = 0.049) were statistically significant and related to usage behavior. In terms of qualitative results, participants reported that the mobile application supported care coordination and communication with staff and provided peace of mind to family caregivers. CONCLUSION The technology showed high technology acceptance and intention to use among family caregivers in a long-term care setting. Facilitating conditions influenced acceptance. Therefore, it would be important to identify and optimize these conditions to ensure technology uptake.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hector Perez
- Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Antonio Miguel-Cruz
- Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Glenrose Rehabilitation Research, Innovation & Technology (GRRIT) Hub, Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Christine Daum
- Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Aidan K. Comeau
- Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Alberta. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Emily Rutledge
- Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
| | - Sharla King
- Faculty of Education, University of Alberta. Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Lili Liu
- Faculty of Health, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, Ontario, Canada
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