Impact of a smartphone-connected remote monitoring system on self-management continuity and health awareness in cardiovascular outpatients: an exploratory survey.

Abstract

Aims: Cardiovascular diseases are a leading cause of death globally, and effective self-management is critical for patient outcomes. Integrating Internet of Things-enabled devices with smartphone applications presents a novel approach to enhancing self-management, yet challenges with digital literacy and device usability persist, especially among the elderly. This study aimed to evaluate the adherence, ease of use, and impact on health awareness of a smartphone-connected remote monitoring system among cardiovascular outpatients in Japan.

Methods and results: We conducted a single-centre, prospective survey at Kumamoto University Hospital involving 10 cardiovascular outpatients (median age: 72.5 years) including heart failure (n = 2), hypertension (n = 3), post-cardiac surgery (n = 2), and others (n = 3). Participants received Bluetooth-enabled monitoring devices and a smartphone app for automatic data synchronization. Adherence, ease of use, and changes in health awareness were assessed through a structured questionnaire. The study found that 8 of 10 participants adhered to daily monitoring, with an average usage period of 48 days. Nine of 10 required minimal support with device use and 8 of 10 reported increase in health awareness. Seven of 10 indicated they could continue using it long term. The average recommendation score was 8.8/10. The timely detection of asymptomatic paroxysmal atrial fibrillation in one patient highlighted the system's potential clinical benefits.

Conclusion: This pilot study suggests that a smartphone-connected remote monitoring system may enhance self-management practices and health awareness among cardiovascular outpatients. While the findings are promising, larger studies with longer follow-up periods are needed to confirm these results and evaluate the system's impact on clinical outcomes.