The Implementation and Acceptability of a Mobile Application for Screening for Atrial Fibrillation at Home

Although patients are able to easily record electrocardiograms using consumer devices, these are typically not shared with their clinicians. This article discusses the development and acceptability of a mobile application (app) that integrates with the electronic health record to facilitate screening for atrial fibrillation (AF). After app development and implementation, we compared workflows with and without the mobile app. Seven older adults used it during a prospective twice-daily 2-week home-based AF screening protocol and completed an acceptability survey with Likert scale responses. Compliance with the screening protocol was 82%. Acceptability and usability was favorable. Patients reported confidence in the connection between the app and their medical record. The availability of apps to capture data and facilitate a connection with health systems is critical. The app developed is a feasible solution for older patients with AF to self-monitor and report results to their health provider.