Assessing the Value of Digital Tools for Effective Shared Decision Making on Physical Activity in Cardiac Secondary Prevention

Abstract

Physical activity is a key component in secondary prevention for patients with cardiac disease. Patients often face challenges to reach and sustain an appropriate level of physical activity. While guidance of caregivers is essential in the initial stage of rehabilitation, personalised approaches that take into account patient preferences provide opportunities for successful lifestyle interventions. In a recent RCT, we evaluated such a shared decision making approach that includes patient preferences for physical activity. Both caregivers and patients were supported by digital tools. Results of the RCT show the effectiveness of shared decision making supported by digital tools on physical activity. Quality of life and exercise capacity significantly increased after the 12-week intervention, and a significant increase in daily step count was observed in the intervention group. In this paper, we present a secondary analysis of the collected data from a Human-Computer Interaction perspective, in search of the added value of digital tools in effective shared decision making. With this aim, we depict our hypotheses as a theoretical model with technology-related and rehabilitation process related constructs and investigate their correlation with the outcomes. This approach enhances insights in factors that determine the effectiveness of digitally supported shared decision making. Although the model cannot extensively clarify all contributing factors, the secondary analysis reveals a need for personalisation.