A clinical observational study in the Chiron project: Rationale and expected results

Abstract

Remote monitoring of congestive heart failure and acute coronary disease (CHF/ACD) using automated monitoring devices and bespoke care pathways/protocols to give early warning of deterioration and facilitate pre-emptive action may be an important solution to the dual problem of increasing healthcare need but static (or reducing) healthcare resource. The CHIRON pilot observational study (OS) tests use of novel monitoring technologies and integration of monitored data in a typical population of patients with CHF/ACD capable of being monitored remotely to either protocol-driven care informed monitoring. This is a European investigation of monitoring technology for patients with CHF/ACD. Differentiating aspects are: sophisticated and automated data collection in the context of protocol-driven care pathways, facilitating optimal management of CHF/ACD patients. The rationale for this OS is presented and why we believe that solid indications will ensue. The results will inform the design of a later powered multicenter study. © 2012 Springer-Verlag.