ASSESSING WORKFLOW, SATISFACTION, AND POTENTIAL COST REDUCTION WHEN USING A CUFFLESS AMBULATORY BLOOD PRESSURE MONITOR

Abstract

Objective: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is used for the diagnosis of hypertension, however, currently-used devices have several drawbacks complicating their use and accuracy. We tested the workflow of a wearable photoplethysmography (PPG)-based cuffless device when compared to the traditional cuff-based ABPM device. Design and method: Patients were recruited in a single community clinic and randomly assigned to either a cuff-based or a PPG-based 24-hour ABPM test. An assessment team recorded the time to complete each workflow component with each device. Questionnaires on user experience and workflow were filled by physicians, nurses, and recruited patients. Results: Workflow assessment of onboarding patients showed that it was faster with the PPG-based device than with the cuff-based device (301.17±58.39 seconds vs 1185±172.34 seconds on average, respectively). The PPG-based device received a higher score in all aspects of usability. The direct manpower cost reduction was calculated as 108,000 USD per year for 4,500 tests. Conclusions: The PPG-based device has several advantages when compared to the traditional cuff-based ABPM device, potentially increasing both patient and medical staff satisfaction, and as a result, increasing compliance. This could help improve the diagnosis and treatment of hypertension in the community.