Abstract P114: Patient Preferences And Experiences With Cuffless Wrist Versus Upper Arm Cuff Blood Pressure Measurements In The CO ntinual Vs. O ccasiona L B lood P ressure Monitoring (COOL-BP) Study

Abstract

Background: Cuffless BP devices can potentially enhance hypertension management and remote BP monitoring. Patient experience with these devices is a key driver of their acceptability and uptake. Methods: We implemented a remote hypertension program within the Mass General Brigham health system using traditional home BP monitoring to adjust medications. Selected patients in this program were enrolled in an ancillary study where BP was also measured via a cuffless wrist monitor (Aktiia SA, Switzerland). We analyzed patient experience surveys of all patients who successfully used each device for at least one full week in the program and completed surveys at 30, 60, and 180 days after enrollment. Final (180-day) surveys were analyzed. Results: Of 35 patients who used both devices, 34 completed all 3 surveys. Thirty-one patients (91%) indicated they preferred using the cuffless wrist monitor over the upper arm BP cuff, 1 (3%) preferred the BP cuff, and 2 (6%) had no preference. Top reasons for preference of the bracelet included ease of use, convenience, and number of readings (Figure). Most patients (27/34, 79%) used the cuffless device either daily or most days of the week, and 23 (68%) found it easy or very easy to use. Twenty-eight (82%) patients believed the bracelet could help manage their hypertension; 32 (94%) indicated that direct transmission of bracelet BP to their providers would be valuable. Conclusion: Among patients who used both traditional home BP monitoring and a cuffless continual BP monitoring bracelet in a remote hypertension management program, the vast majority found the cuffless device easier to use and more convenient, and preferred it over traditional BP cuffs.