Patient Centered mobile Health TECHnology Enabled Atrial Fibrillation Management (mTECH Afib): A Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial.

Background: Digital health technologies provide a scalable, efficient approach to implementing guideline-recommended risk factor modification in the care of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF).

Objectives: This study aimed to evaluate the feasibility of a 12-week, multicomponent, virtual AF management program using a smartphone application, connected devices, and virtual coaching calls for risk factor modification.

Methods: Patients with AF were enrolled from outpatient clinics. Patients were randomized in a 1:1 ratio to either usual care only or the virtual program. The study objectives were to assess feasibility, with the goal of achieving at least 60% participant retention at 12 weeks, intervention engagement, and participant satisfaction.

Results: Among 61 patients enrolled (76% of those approached), the mean age was 65 ± 8 years, and 36% were women. A total of 89% of all participants were retained by 12-week follow-up. In the intervention group, at 12-weeks, 88% continued using the smartphone application, 73% continued participation in virtual coaching calls, and 80% reported being satisfied with the program.

Conclusions: The mTECH Afib (Patient Centered mobile health TECHnology Enabled Atrial Fibrillation Management) trial demonstrates feasibility of conducting a randomized controlled trial using an innovative digital health technology-enabled intervention with broad patient engagement and acceptance of the program components. Large-scale clinical trials powered for health outcomes will be necessary to establish intervention efficacy.