The aim of this study was to evaluate a novel virtual care platform created for use in Left Ventricular Assist Device (LVAD) patients. The platform included a daily log of LVAD parameters and medication adherence, two-way messaging with providers, and educational resources. To test the feasibility of this application, we recruited 25 patients between 2017 and 2019 and followed them for 6 months post discharge. Feedback concerning the platform was very positive with an average score of 4.5 ± 0.6 (out of 5) on usability and/or satisfaction and 8.1 ± 1.8 (out of 10) on likelihood to recommend the platform. In addition, our platform was well utilized with median (IQR) engagement rates of 87 (53,100)% at 30 days and 73 (49,95)% overall. We found that patients using the platform attended significantly less outpatient visits at the 6 month mark, however there was no difference in 30-day readmission rates compared to the overall LVAD cohort.
Keywords: LVAD; patient satisfaction; readmissions; telehealth; virtual care.
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