6 Digital innovation in cardiac rehabilitation: a one-year pilot study of offering myHeart app at point of referral

<h3>Background</h3> Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains one of the global causes of morbidity and mortality with over 18million deaths per year. Cardiac rehabilitation is an evidence-based treatment, highly effective in reducing deaths and health complications. The use of apps in cardiac rehabilitation has accelerated due to the covid pandemic. <h3>Aim</h3> The purpose of our project was to evaluate offering myHeart app from mymhealth and explore whether we could address healthcare access inequalities through digital means. <h3>Methods</h3> The use of myHeart app for one year (from April 2023 to April 2024) among cardiac rehabilitation patients attending follow up clinic (n = 808) of an acute hospital in the southeast of England. Patients with cardiac conditions including heart failure were to be offered the app at point of referral. The package included support for a minimum of 3 months up to one year. Data were collected to evaluate patient acceptance and to understand how it was used in a hybrid service delivery. In addition, qualitative data were collected from patients using open ended questions related to their experience. <h3>Results</h3> The myHeart app was accepted by 45% of patients (n = 357) with the app being used as a home programme option by more women (n = 37) than without the app (n = 2) (April – December 2023). The team achieved 83% activation of the app which is higher than the average 70% for health apps as reported by The Organisation for the Review of Care and Health Apps (ORCHA). Five patients shared their experiences of using the app and comments included ‘it helped them manage their condition’ and ‘improved their confidence.’ <h3>Conclusion</h3> The myHeart app integrates effectively into the cardiac rehabilitation care pathway. A dedicated digital team has enhanced patient digital literacy and supported clinicians. Further research is required to assess the long-term benefits of the app, demonstrate enhanced access to rehabilitation and decreased costs.