TELECUORE: FEASIBILITY OF A HOSPITAL–TERRITORIAL TELEMEDICINE PROJECT IN CHRONIC HEART FAILURE

Abstract

Abstract Background Since February 2023, Cardiology department of AUSL Piacenza has started a telemedicine project named “TeleCuore,” aimed at exploring the impact of a multiparametric telemonitoring system on the management of patients affected by chronic heart failure (CHF). OBJECTIVES assess organizational sustainability, satisfaction among involved figures, and the clinical impact at 9 months of an extensive telemonitoring project targeting patients with CHF. Materials and Methods 250 patients with CHF and recent clinical instability were recruited and equipped with the Adilife device to monitor and transmit weight, temperature, blood pressure, heart and respiratory rate, oxygen saturation, and single–lead ECG. These data are managed by case manager (CM), cardiologists, respiratory and perfusion pathophysiology technicians (TFCPC), general practitioner to optimize patient therapy, empowerment, and reduce acute admissions through timely teleconsultations/televisits. Every 6 months, patients are asked to complete a Quality of Life questionnaire (KCCQ–23) and a satisfaction questionnaire regarding the project, which is also administered to healthcare professionals. Results Over 9 months, positive patient engagement is confirmed, with over 92,000 total transmitted measurements. The most monitored parameter is heart rate (4 times/week). At questionnaire analysis, 80% of patients believes TeleCuore helps them remember parameter measurements, and 70% adopt a correct lifestyle through phone conversations with CM. For over 50%of them the project contributes improving their relationship with healthcare professionals. For 90%of healthcare professionals there is better team collaboration and patient education. Both clinicians and patients (100%) believe that TeleCuore improves the effectiveness of follow–up visits: patients arrive more prepared (30%), and staff can dedicate more time to patients (30%) and access information before the visit (10%). The patients KCCQ score varies from a medium of 71 at baseline to a medium of 78 at 6 months analisys. Conclusions TeleCuore project demonstrates that telemedicine can facilitate patient management and empowerment. Professional figures (CM and TFCPC) are crucial for project execution, working alongside clinical cardiologists for proper alert management, patient education on therapy adherence, and correct lifestyle. An ongoing analysis aims to quantify whether TeleCuore can reduce hospitalizations related to acute heart failure.