IMPACT OF REMOTE MONITORING ON PATIENTS’ QUALITY OF LIFE. A SINGLE CENTRE STUDY

Abstract

Objective: PROSIT (Patient Reported Outcomes and Smart Imaging in Telecardiology) is an innovative research initiative designed to explore the efficacy of remote patient monitoring in cardiovascular care. This project leverages wearable technology and patient-reported data to enhance the management of cardiac conditions, aiming to improve both patient outcomes and quality of life. Design and method: We evaluated 100 Caucasian patients, affected by hypertension, who access to Unit of Internal Medicine “G. Baccelli” and Unit of Hypertension “A.M. Pirrelli” from April to October 2023. Patients were divided in three groups: group A, with a wearable device (Hi) for continuous monitoring and an app with manual vital signs reporting, group B with only manual vital signs reporting through app on personal devices, and group C as the control group. The app for A and B group was able to suggest patient-physician interaction evaluating data inputted. All patients were assigned in different groups with a randomized approach based on factors such as age, gender, ejection fraction, presence of atrial fibrillation, and pulmonary embolism. Results: Telemonitoring usage has led patients to experience safe feelingsin their daily lives. In fact, patients in group B (app only) and A (app and Hi device) presented an improvement, notably significant for those in group A (p<0,05), compared to group C. In contrast, group C did not change their responses after one month of follow-up. Despite encountering minor issues during the trial, all enrolled patients believe that the telemonitoring program and telemedicine visits are commendable. Although the patients themselves have pointed out areas for improvement in the software, this does not diminish the substantial foundation that this technology signifies. No change was found in treatment adherence or blood pressure control. Conclusions: This study leads up to a future where digital support to medical practice will play a crucial role in accessing patient care and therapies, both for patients and clinicians alike. Patients are ready to embrace a new method for accessing care and being monitored by clinicians, one that integrates the old and the new, keeping pace with the times.