Patient Perspectives on the "Future Patient" Telerehabilitation Program for Atrial Fibrillation: Qualitative Study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Digital Health
• Patient Rehabilitation

Background:

• Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a widespread condition increasing stroke and heart failure risks.
• Traditional cardiac rehabilitation programs struggle with patient adherence.
• Cardiac telerehabilitation offers a potential solution to improve adherence and outcomes for AF patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient experiences within the "Future Patient-Telerehabilitation of Patients with AF" (FP-AF) program.
• To assess the impact of telerehabilitation technologies and the HeartPortal on AF patient management.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative sub-study of a multicenter randomized controlled trial (FP-AF trial).
• Semi-structured interviews with 14 randomly selected patients from the intervention arm.
• Thematic coding of interview responses using NVivo software, guided by self-determination theory.

Main Results:

• Patients positively viewed home monitoring devices and found the HeartPortal a useful digital tool.
• Participants developed new coping strategies and found measured data valuable.
• The program fostered a sense of security and community, enhancing patient well-being.

Conclusions:

• The FP-AF program enhanced patient security, empowerment, and AF knowledge through the HeartPortal and educational sessions.
• Telerehabilitation shows promise for researching and delivering rehabilitation to AF patients.
• Cardiac telerehabilitation may be an effective future model for AF patient care.