INFORM-AF: a pilot-feasibility study of an mHealth atrial fibrillation education program

Abstract

Abstract Funding Acknowledgements Type of funding sources: Public grant(s) – National budget only. Main funding source(s): National Health and Medical Research Council (Australian Government) Objective to determine the feasibility and efficacy of a digital education program for patients living with atrial fibrillation on patient knowledge and AF-related quality of life. Methods a single-arm pilot-feasibility study was conducted. Participants with diagnosed AF were recruited from two metropolitan hospitals in Australia, following index hospitalisation. INFORM-AF was delivered by a QStream digital platform directly to participant’s smartphones over 6 weeks. The intervention consisted of a series of 6 interactive micro-learning case studies, multiple choice questions, instant feedback and learning resources delivered using a standardised spaced algorithm with repetition. Topics addressed AF symptoms, risk factors and complications, lifestyle and medication management and seeking assistance. Outcome measures included AF knowledge (JEKQ), AF quality of life (AFEQT) and system usability (SUS). Surveys were completed at in-hospital baseline and via phone at 6 weeks, 3, 6 and 12 months. Results 32 participants were enrolled, 2 were lost to follow up and 2 withdrew. 28 were included in the analyses. The mean age was 61 years (32-79 years), with 56% female. There were significant improvements to AF knowledge (62% pre vs 73% post, p<0.001) and AF quality of life at 6 weeks (54 pre and 68 post, p = 0.016), system usability was excellent (mean 84). Knowledge improvements were the greatest in the risk factor, symptom recognition, and when to seek assistance domains. Conclusion INFORM-AF demonstrated good feasibility with significant improvements in AF knowledge and quality of life at 12 months. We plan to evaluate this intervention in a larger clinical trial on outcomes including emergency department visits, hospitalisation and healthcare utilisation.Table 1Figure 1