Abstract

Background: Home-based cardiac rehab (HBCR) program is a potential solution to overcome CR barriers, however its setting in Malaysia is still in its infancy. Reduced physical interaction with CR providers among HBCR participants may also mean reduced cardiovascular knowledge-sharing opportunities. We hypothesized by delivering an education material using a commonly used internet-based instant messaging app to HBCR participants may compensate for this limitation and improve outcome and subsequently improve HBCR delivery.

Aims: To assess the feasibility and impact of a digital education material in improving clinical and behavioural outcomes in home-based CR phase 2 (CRP2) participants.

Methods and Results: A prospective, multiple assessment study was conducted involving home-based CR patients in a single center. Research participants were given digital educational material via an internet-based instant messaging app at the beginning of CRP2 and followed up for 12 weeks. The frequency of monthly faceto- face follow-up with CR providers remained unchanged. The uptake rate was 91.3%, with an 80% adherence rate. 92.9% who completed the intervention complied with the CRP2 program. The majority of participants reported positive feedback and high acceptability for this intervention. In a pre/post comparison to intervention completers, improvement was noted in the ABCD-risk score, smoking cessation, medication adherence, compliance to weekly exercise, and treadmill exercise stress test endurance parameters.

Conclusion: A digital education material shared via an internet-based instant messaging app is a feasible intervention to HBCR participants and has a positive impact on behavioural and clinical outcomes.