Health outcomes and cost benefit of home e-health in helping to manage heart failure

Abstract

This study presents a systematic review of the nature and magnitude of outcomes associated with e-Health of cardiac diseases. Methods: A comprehensive literature search was conducted on Medline and the Cochrane Library to identify relevant articles published between 2000 and 2014 in which the outcome measure used was one or more of health outcome, proxy health outcome, patient compliance or cost. Studies identified were subjected to narrative review. The magnitude and significance of the Home e-Health effects on patients’ conditions (e.g., early detection of symptoms, decrease in blood pressure, adequate medication, reduced mortality) still remain inconclusive for cardiac diseases. However, the results of this study suggest that regardless of their nationality, socioeconomic status, or age, patients comply with Home e- Health programs and the use of technologies. Importantly, the Home e-Health effects on clinical effectiveness outcomes (e.g., decrease in the emergency visits, hospital admissions, average hospital length of stay) are more consistent in Heart Failure. Home e-Health of cardiac diseases seems to be a promising patient management approach that produces accurate and reliable data, empowers patients, influences their attitudes and behaviors, and potentially improves their medical conditions. Future studies need to build evidence related to its clinical effects, cost effectiveness, impacts on services utilization, and acceptance by health care providers.