Extended Telemonitored Follow-Up After Acute Coronary Syndrome: A Healthcare Pathway That Improves Cardiovascular Prevention and Patient Experience, and Reduces Outpatient Visits †

Abstract

Background: Extended telemonitored follow-up after acute coronary syndrome (ACS) has been shown to optimize secondary prevention outcomes. However, its impact on patient experience and outpatient visits remains unclear. Methods: This observational, retrospective, longitudinal study included 75 consecutive patients who underwent 10-month telemonitored follow-up after ACS and 50 consecutive patients who received standard care. Lipid parameters at hospital admission and 12 months post-discharge, patient experience (measured using the IEXPAC scale), and outpatient visits were evaluated. Results: The mean patient age was 58.0 years in the telemonitored group and 60.8 years in the control group, with males comprising 87% and 92%, respectively. The telemonitored group showed significant decreases in triglyceride levels (p < 0.011), VLDL cholesterol (p = 0.003), triglyceride/HDL ratio (p = 0.007), and remnant cholesterol levels (p = 0.018). The IEXPAC score was significantly higher in the telemonitored group (7.9 ± 1.5) compared to the standard care group (6.0 ± 1.9, p < 0.001). Higher ratings were observed across all domains: patient-professional productive interaction, the new patient-healthcare system relational model, and self-care. The telemonitored group also had fewer visits to Cardiology (1.0 ± 1.2 vs. 1.7 ± 1.0; p < 0.001) and Primary Care (7.1 ± 4.6 vs. 9.4 ± 5.2; p = 0.014). Conclusions: Extended telemonitored follow-up after ACS significantly enhances patient experience, improves lipid-related cardiovascular risk, and reduces outpatient visits to Primary Care and Cardiology compared to standard follow-up. These findings support the broader implementation of this healthcare pathway.