The evaluation of an interactive web-based Pulmonary Rehabilitation programme: protocol for the WEB SPACE for COPD...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Digital Health
• Rehabilitation Science

Background:

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) is a recommended intervention for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.
• Access to conventional PR services is limited for many COPD patients.
• Internet-based interventions are increasingly used for managing long-term conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of an interactive web-based PR program.
• To compare the efficacy of web-based PR with conventional PR in COPD patients.
• To evaluate improvements in exercise capacity, quality of life, and self-management.

Main Methods:

• A feasibility study with randomized allocation to web-based or conventional PR for 7 weeks.
• Participants recruited from PR assessments, primary care, and community programs.
• Outcome measures included recruitment rates, eligibility, exercise capacity, quality of life, and physical activity.

Main Results:

• The study evaluated the feasibility and efficacy of a novel approach to PR delivery.
• Key outcome measures related to patient function and well-being were assessed.
• Recruitment and eligibility rates were primary feasibility outcomes.

Conclusions:

• Web-based PR offers a potential alternative to conventional programs, enhancing accessibility.
• This approach may improve exercise capacity and quality of life for COPD patients.
• Further research can explore wider implementation of digital PR solutions.