KardioNet Digital - a structured care model involving digital tools for intersectoral communication and a patient-focused strategy for treatment of heart failure
Authors: Goss F , Glueck S , Schulz M , Grabmaier U 
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Inefficiencies and discontinuities in care at the interfaces within Germany's healthcare system, especially between acute and outpatient care, present significant challenges in managing patients with heart failure (HF). The management complexity of HF has increased with the advent of new digital tools, though patient acceptance of these tools remains contentious. The prevention of loss of diagnostic and therapeutic information for this complex disease is crucial for cross-sectoral communication (hospital - office-based cardiologist - general practitioner) and quality of care.

Purpose

Our goal was to examine the impact of digital app-supported coordination of HF management across different healthcare providers from hospital discharge to the ambulatory sector and to assess patients' acceptance of a structured care program. A patient-focused digital strategy, supported by a Heart Failure Nurse (HFN), aimed to facilitate structured follow-up and patient empowerment, focusing on patient-reported outcomes and experiences (refer to Table 1).

Results

Out of 401 patients screened during their hospital stay for HF, only 57 (14.9% male, 12.6% female) participated in the KardioNet Digital (KND) program. NYHA classifications were I (3.5%), II (49.1%), III (40.4%), and IV (7.1%); Diagnoses included CMP (26, 45.6%), CAD (19, 33.3%), valvular HF (8, 14.0%), and others (4, 7.0%). The mean age was 55.03 years, with a notable difference in participation based on age (≥70 years: 9.5% male, 33.3% female; &lt;70 years: 90.5% male, 66.7% female). Age was a significant determinant of program participation. Patients who regularly used the app benefited from several features: A total of 35 alerts (17 patients) were triggered for reasons such as bodyweight increase (2kg or more) and device-induced alerts (i.e. false shock delivery, 3x slow-VT, Syncope), leading the HFN to contact the patients. This early intervention prevented rehospitalization due to decompensation of heart failure in 11 patients (64.7%) and addressed device-related alarms for organizing an emergency hospital visit by HFN. Despite substantial incentives, such as support from an HFN and expedited appointments with specialists for follow-up therapy, refusal rates were high (refer to Table 2).

Conclusion

A structured, digitally supported cross-sectoral care model for heart failure patients can potentially improve care coordination and outcomes. However, the success of such programs critically depends on patient willingness and the seamless integration into existing healthcare structures. Despite valuable incentives, we observed low acceptance of the program. Even among motivated participants (14.1%), there is a significant need for substantial support and education on digital literacy for the widespread implementation of digital tools in real-world settings for the treatment of heart failure.Workflow of structured digital supportReasons for Declining Participation