Person-centred care by a combined digital platform and structured telephone support for people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and/or chronic heart failure: study protocol for the PROTECT randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND: A core feature of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) and chronic heart failure (CHF) is that symptoms may change rapidly because of illness progression. Thus, these chronic conditions are associated with high rehospitalisation rates. Person-centred care (PCC) has been shown to have several benefits for patients with COPD or CHF (or both disorders) but it has not yet been investigated through e-health services. AIM: The project aims to evaluate the effects of PCC by a combined digital platform and structured telephone support for people with COPD and/or CHF. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: A randomised controlled trial with open, parallel groups which employs a participatory design process will be used. This project will also include process and health economic evaluation of the intervention. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: Ethical approval has been secured from the Regional Ethical Review Board in Gothenburg, Sweden (Dnr 063-17 and T063-18). Results will be presented at conferences and to healthcare professionals, participants and patient organisations. Findings will also be submitted for publication in peer-reviewed journals. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03183817