A qualitative study of telemedicine in heart failure care

Heart failure is a prevalent chronic condition with a poor prognosis that impairs quality of life and generates high healthcare use. Telemedicine is increasingly used in heart failure care, but patients' everyday experiences remain underexplored. This study aimed to explore and interpret the experiences and motivations of patients with heart failure participating in a telemedicine programme.

We conducted a qualitative content analysis among patients with heart failure receiving home-based telemedicine. Semi-structured in-person interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analyzed inductively. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research guided conduct and reporting.

Data saturation was achieved after 21 interviews. Five main categories and 13 subcategories were identified: (1) benefits of telemedicine (perceived safety and reassurance, greater self-control, recommendation of telemedicine); (2) impact on daily life (time impact, practical limitations and mobility, conflicting experience); (3) relationship with healthcare professionals (presence of healthcare professionals, desire for greater contact, professional behaviors); (4) interaction with technology (unreliable devices, unreliable connectivity); and (5) family context (family support, family members' attitudes).

Telemedicine for patients with heart failure can enhance perceived safety and reassurance, self-management, continuity of care and treatment adherence when supported by strong patient-clinician relationships, reliable technology and alignment with daily routines and family dynamics. Future programs should be co-designed with patients and caregivers, include flexible personalized monitoring, clearly explaining how data are used and ensure two-way communication. Multicenter mixed-methods studies are needed to refine person-centered telemedicine models that best support heart failure care.