Reviews Evaluating Information Technology-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs and Support: A Systematic Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Digital Health
• Rehabilitation Medicine

Background:

• Technology application in virtual or remote cardiac rehabilitation addresses healthcare access challenges and inequalities.
• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients can benefit from improved access to rehabilitation services through technological integration.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of technology on various clinical outcomes within cardiac rehabilitation programs for cardiovascular patients.
• To synthesize evidence on the effectiveness of technology-enhanced cardiac rehabilitation.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review and evidence map approach was employed, adhering to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines.
• Extensive literature searches were conducted across major electronic databases up to March 21, 2021.

Main Results:

• The majority of 51 included reviews indicated positive effects of virtual or remote cardiac rehabilitation compared to usual care.
• Significant heterogeneity in results was observed, attributed to variations in technology, follow-up duration, patient conditions, and study methodologies.

Conclusions:

• Participant satisfaction and technology complexity are crucial considerations for remote cardiac rehabilitation.
• Simpler interventions enhance acceptability, while advanced features may impact cost-effectiveness, necessitating careful technology selection.