Harnessing digital health to optimise the delivery of guideline-based cardiac rehabilitation during COVID-19: an observational study

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the uptake of digital health interventions for the delivery of cardiac rehabilitation (CR). However, there is a need to evaluate these interventions. METHODS: We examined the impact of an evidence-based, digital CR programme on medical, lifestyle and psychosocial outcomes. Delivered by an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, the core components of this 12-week programme included lifestyle modification, medical risk factor management, psychosocial and behavioural change support. To support self-management, patients were provided with a Fitbit, a home blood pressure (BP) monitor and an interactive workbook. Patients received access to a bespoke web-based platform and were invited to attend weekly, online group-based supervised exercise sessions and educational workshops. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, end of programme and at 6-month follow-up. RESULTS: Over a 3-month period, 105 patients (88% with coronary heart disease) were referred with 74% (n=77) attending initial assessment. Of these, 97% (n=75) enrolled in the programme, with 85% (n=64) completing the programme, 86% (n=55) of completers attended 6-month follow-up. Comparing baseline to end of programme, we observed significant improvements in the proportion of patients meeting guideline-recommended targets for physical activity (+68%, p<0.001), BP (+44%, p<0.001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (+27%, p<0.001). There were significant reductions in mean weight (−2.6 kg, p<0.001). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet score improved from 5.2 to 7.3 (p<0.001). Anxiety and depression levels (Hospital Anxiety and Depression score) both reduced by more than 50% (p<0.001). The majority of these improvements were sustained at 6-month follow-up. CONCLUSION: Outcomes from this study suggest that interdisciplinary digital CR programmes can be successfully implemented and help patients achieve guideline recommended lifestyle, medical and therapeutic targets.