Early Identification of Hospital Visit Risk in Heart Failure Using Wearable-Derived Data

Heart failure is a leading cause of mortality, necessitating identification of patients at increased risk needing intervention. In this study, we investigated if Fitbit data can reveal physiological trends associated with hospital visit risk.

Individuals with heart failure (n=249) were randomized into three arms for prospective 180-day monitoring. All arms received a Fitbit and wireless weight scale. Arm 1 received devices only; Arm 2 received a mobile app with surveys; Arm 3 received the app plus financial incentives.

51 participants had hospital visits during the study period. These individuals took fewer steps (p=.002) and reported increased symptom severity (p=.044). Resting heart rate increased three days prior to a visit (p=.022). Baseline steps revealed a higher visit probability for less active participants (p=.003).

Passive physiological monitoring can effectively identify individuals at risk of health exacerbation, demonstrating the potential of wearable devices for timely clinical intervention.