Pilot Study of an Internet Patient-Physician Communication Tool for Heart Failure Disease Management
Author Information
Author(s): Robert C Wu, Diego Delgado, Jeannine Costigan, Jane MacIver, Heather Ross
Primary Institution: Toronto General Hospital, University Health Network
Hypothesis
Can an Internet communication tool improve patient-physician communication and disease management in heart failure patients?
Conclusion
The Internet tool is a feasible method of communication for a substantial proportion of patients with heart failure, although most discontinued use over time.
Supporting Evidence
- 45% of patients used the system for at least 3 months.
- Patients sent 3386 comments to the Heart Function Clinic.
- Usage data showed that certain information was entered more frequently than others.
Takeaway
This study tested a website that helps heart failure patients talk to their doctors. Many patients liked it, but most stopped using it after a while.
Methodology
Patients with symptomatic heart failure were instructed on using the Internet communication tool, and their usage was monitored over 3 months.
Potential Biases
Selection bias may have influenced the results as the study population was a select group of heart failure patients.
Limitations
Small sample size, lack of a control group, and possible selection bias limit the generalizability of the findings.
Participant Demographics
Mean age of participants was 48.7 years, with a mix of genders and various co-morbidities.
Statistical Information
Confidence Interval
95% Confidence Interval, 0.33-0.58
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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