Review: Effectiveness of Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation via mHealth
We are excited to share our recently published systematic review and meta-analysis, which examines the effectiveness of home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) interventions delivered via mobile health (mHealth) technologies. This study was developed as part of an international research collaboration, leveraging expertise in digital health, rehabilitation science, and information systems from University of Illinois at Chicago, HEC Montréal, and Otto-Friedrich-Universität Bamberg.
Key Findings:
- mHealth-supported HBCR significantly improves functional capacity, as measured by 6-minute walk test (6MWT) and VO₂ peak, compared to usual care.
- No significant difference was observed between mHealth HBCR and CBCR, suggesting that mHealth interventions could serve as viable alternatives for patients unable to attend in-person programs.
- mHealth interventions, including smartphone applications, wearable devices, and remote monitoring, help overcome barriers related to transportation, time constraints, and accessibility.
- The quality of evidence varies, with some limitations due to small sample sizes and potential bias.
Implications:
- This study highlights the potential of mHealth technologies to bridge the gap in remote cardiac rehabilitation delivery, particularly for underserved populations.
- Future research should focus on improving the clinical and cost-effectiveness evidence to support wider adoption in clinical practice and health policy.
📖 Read the full article: Lancet Digital Health (2025)
Citation:
Li, L., Ringeval, M., Wagner, G., Paré, G., Ozemek, C., & Kitsiou, S. (2025). Effectiveness of home-based cardiac rehabilitation interventions delivered via mHealth technologies: a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Lancet Digital Health. Published online February 28, 2025. doi:10.1016/j.landig.2025.01.011