PATIENT ENGAGEMENT IN A HYBRID CARE PATHWAY FOR HYPERTENSION: NOT ONE SIZE FITS ALL

Objective: To evaluate current experiences and future needs for long-term engagement of patients with hypertension included in a specific hybrid care pathway for hypertension. The hybrid care pathway consisted of three digital elements: home blood pressure telemonitoring, a digital communication platform and a digital lifestyle intervention which was incorporated in the telemonitoring application.Design and method: Patients >18 years old with at least 3 months care pathway participation were recruited by telephone and divided into three age/focus groups with distinct digital skills and attitudes towards lifestyle interventions (group 1:18-40 years old, group 2:40-65 years old, group 3:>65 years old). We used deductive thematic content analysis to cluster the results to the different digital elements (remote monitoring, communication, digital lifestyle intervention) of the care pathway. Results: Fifteen patients were interviewed in March 2023 (Group 1;2;3, 3;6;6 participants). The care pathway improved disease insight, engagement, and shared decision capabilities in all groups. For further improved adherence and engagement, all patients indicated the need to incorporate a more personalized approach and interaction with their healthcare provider. In addition, the oldest group preferred simplification of the telemonitoring application, while the other groups preferred enrichment with more complex information. See tables 1-3 for a complete overview of specific current experiences and future needs for each digital element used in the hybrid care pathway for hypertension. Conclusions: To ensure optimal short- and long term engagement in a hybrid care pathway for hypertension, digital elements like digital communication tools, home blood pressure telemonitoring programs and digital lifestyle interventions should be personalized and tailored to individual as well as to age-specific needs.