Healthcare

Editorial

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7 pages, 175 KiB

Open AccessEditorial

The Future of Healthcare Is Digital: Unlocking the Potential of Mobile Health and E-Health Solutions

by Daniele Giansanti

Healthcare 2025, 13(7), 802; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13070802 - 3 Apr 2025

Viewed by 402

Abstract

In the era of rapid technological advancement, healthcare is undergoing a profound transformation driven by digital solutions [...] Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

Research

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20 pages, 2014 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Barriers to the Utilization of mHealth Applications in Saudi Arabia: Insights from Patients with Chronic Diseases

by Haitham Alzghaibi

Healthcare 2025, 13(6), 665; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13060665 - 18 Mar 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 555

Abstract

Background: Mobile health (mHealth) applications play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare accessibility, patient engagement, and chronic disease management. However, technical, usability, accessibility, and privacy-related barriers continue to hinder their widespread adoption. The Sehaty app, a government-managed mHealth platform in Saudi Arabia, is [...] Read more.

Background: Mobile health (mHealth) applications play a crucial role in enhancing healthcare accessibility, patient engagement, and chronic disease management. However, technical, usability, accessibility, and privacy-related barriers continue to hinder their widespread adoption. The Sehaty app, a government-managed mHealth platform in Saudi Arabia, is widely used for scheduling medical appointments, accessing health records, and communicating with healthcare providers. Understanding the challenges associated with its utilization is essential for optimizing its functionality and improving user experience. Aim: This study aims to identify and evaluate the key barriers affecting the adoption and usability of the Sehaty mHealth application among patients with chronic conditions in Saudi Arabia. Specifically, it examines challenges related to technical performance, usability, accessibility, privacy, and security and their impact on user satisfaction and engagement. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire distributed to 344 participants selected through purposive sampling to ensure the inclusion of active Sehaty users with chronic conditions. The questionnaire assessed 10 primary usability barriers, including technical issues, navigation difficulties, privacy concerns, and accessibility limitations. Descriptive statistics and correlation analyses were performed to evaluate the prevalence and interrelationships of these barriers. Results: The findings indicate that technical barriers, including frequent application crashes, slow responsiveness, and system instability, significantly hinder user satisfaction. Usability challenges, such as difficulties in navigation and task completion, further impede engagement. Moreover, privacy and security concerns emerged as significant deterrents, with users expressing apprehensions about data safety and transparency. Accessibility barriers, particularly for older adults and individuals with disabilities, were associated with insufficient support and training, making the app less user-friendly for these populations. The study highlights the interconnected nature of usability challenges, suggesting that improvements in technical stability and interface design could lead to enhanced user confidence, engagement, and overall satisfaction. Conclusions: Addressing these barriers requires targeted technical enhancements, user-centered design improvements, and strengthened data security measures to promote trust and engagement. Additionally, implementing comprehensive user support systems and accessibility features is essential to ensuring equitable access to mHealth services. While the study’s generalizability is limited by its focus on a single government-managed platform, its findings offer valuable insights applicable to broader mHealth initiatives. Future research should incorporate longitudinal studies to assess the long-term impact of usability improvements on mHealth adoption and healthcare outcomes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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21 pages, 715 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Patient Mobility in the Digital Era: How Online Service Information from Internet Hospitals Shapes Patients’ Cross-Regional Healthcare Choices

by Yingjie Lu, Luli Shi and Zimeng Wang

Healthcare 2025, 13(5), 484; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13050484 - 23 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 570

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Patients in medically underserved regions often seek cross-regional healthcare for high-quality medical services but face significant barriers due to limited information about providers. Internet hospitals address this gap by offering online consultations, remote diagnoses, and public service information. This study examines how [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Patients in medically underserved regions often seek cross-regional healthcare for high-quality medical services but face significant barriers due to limited information about providers. Internet hospitals address this gap by offering online consultations, remote diagnoses, and public service information. This study examines how such information shapes patients’ cross-regional healthcare choices. Methods: A binary logistic regression model using signaling theory was employed to evaluate the impact of platform-generated signals (e.g., hospital ratings) and patient-generated signals (e.g., review quantity and polarity) on patients’ cross-regional healthcare choices. The experimental data were sourced from a leading Chinese online medical platform, comprising 1901 hospitals and 273,884 patient feedback records. Among these, 216,793 patients (79.16%) sought cross-regional treatment, while 57,091 patients (20.84%) opted for local treatment. Results: Platform-generated signals, such as hospital ratings (B = 0.406, p < 0.01) and patient-generated signals, including review quantity (B = 0.089, p < 0.01) and polarity (B = 0.634, p < 0.01), significantly and positively influence patients’ cross-regional healthcare choices. Disease severity and local medical resource availability moderated these effects: Patients with severe conditions rely less on hospital ratings (B = −0.365, p < 0.01), while those in resource-limited areas depend more on hospital ratings (B = −0.138, p < 0.01) and review quantity (B = −0.029, p < 0.01) but less on review polarity (B = 0.273, p < 0.01). Conclusions: These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and platform developers to optimize online healthcare services, facilitating informed cross-regional healthcare decisions and advancing healthcare equity in the digital era. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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10 pages, 391 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Transformative Insights into Community-Acquired Pressure Injuries Among the Elderly: A Big Data Analysis

by Sigal Shafran-Tikva, Gillie Gabay and Ilya Kagan

Healthcare 2025, 13(2), 153; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13020153 - 15 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1216

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate community-acquired pressure injuries (CAPIs) in older people by utilizing big data. Design: Retrospective data curation and analysis of inpatient data from two general medical centers between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2018. Methods: Nursing assessments from 44,449 electronic medical [...] Read more.

Purpose: To investigate community-acquired pressure injuries (CAPIs) in older people by utilizing big data. Design: Retrospective data curation and analysis of inpatient data from two general medical centers between 1 January 2016 and 31 December 2018. Methods: Nursing assessments from 44,449 electronic medical records of patients admitted to internal medicine departments were retrieved, organized, coded by data engineers, and analyzed by data scientists. Potential explanatory patient characteristics tested were gender, age, admission indices, nursing assessments including CAPIs, CAPI type and location, vital signs, and the results of lab tests within the first 36 h of admission. Findings: Most CAPIs were located in the buttocks (56.9%), followed by the sacrum (11.8%), ankle (10.8%), trochanter (5.1%), and leg (3.9%). Tissue associated with CAPIs was described as necrotic, serotic, bloody, granolithic, epithelial, and infected. There were 31% of first-degree CAPIs, 41% second-degree, and 18% third-degree. Previously unacknowledged patient characteristics associated with CAPIs are as follows: age, oxygen use, intestinal function, the touch senses of heat and pain, albumin, RDW (red cell distribution width), and systolic blood pressure. Conclusions: The novel indicators for CAPIs underscore the importance of data-driven approaches in detecting and preventing CAPIs in community care. These markers can detect and prevent pressure ulcers in the community, particularly among the elderly. Relevance for Clinical Practice: Nursing management is called upon to integrate information about novel patient characteristics associated with CAPI into clinical practice. Assimilating the insights from this hospital nursing-led study into community nursing will enhance the safety and quality of care for the elderly. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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17 pages, 1326 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of Virtual Reality in Reducing Pain and Stress During Office Hysteroscopy: A Randomized Controlled Trial

by Josep Estadella Tarriel, Josep Perelló Capó, Marta Simó González, Marta Bailón Queiruga, Jordi Real Gatius, Mar Gomis-Pastor, Diana Marre and Elisa Llurba Olivé

Healthcare 2025, 13(2), 131; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13020131 - 12 Jan 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1138

Abstract

Introduction: Office hysteroscopy (OH) offers a “see and treat” strategy, enabling most gynecological conditions to be addressed outside the operating room without anesthesia. Despite its convenience, the associated pain and stress remain significant barriers to its widespread success among women. Both pharmacological and [...] Read more.

Introduction: Office hysteroscopy (OH) offers a “see and treat” strategy, enabling most gynecological conditions to be addressed outside the operating room without anesthesia. Despite its convenience, the associated pain and stress remain significant barriers to its widespread success among women. Both pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions have been explored to mitigate these challenges, albeit with mixed outcomes. Methods: This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of virtual reality (VR) in reducing pain and stress associated with OH using objective measurements. Results: Our findings indicate that VR significantly reduced pain during OH compared to the control group (−1.08, 95%CI; −1.93–0.23, on the Visual Analogue Scale (VAS), p = 0.013) and 10 min post-procedure (−1.24, 95%CI; −1.99–0.48, p = 0.001), without significant effects on stress-related variables. Stratified analyses further revealed that the efficacy of VR in pain reduction is influenced by individual patient characteristics, with greater effectiveness observed in women with lower baseline stress, premenopausal status and a history of childbirth, regardless of vaginal delivery. Conclusions: VR represents a promising strategy for managing OH-associated pain, with its effectiveness largely depending on patient-specific variables. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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15 pages, 895 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Exploring the Impact of Positive Psychology-Based Virtual Music Therapy on Mental Health in Stressed College Students during COVID-19: A Pilot Investigation

by Jinwoo Han, Hyejin Lee, Teri Kim and Sangyeol Lee

Healthcare 2024, 12(15), 1467; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12151467 - 23 Jul 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3125

Abstract

This study explored the effectiveness of a virtual music therapy program, based on positive psychotherapy principles, in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty-four undergraduate students with partial PTSD were initially assigned to either an experimental group or a control group, with 11 [...] Read more.

This study explored the effectiveness of a virtual music therapy program, based on positive psychotherapy principles, in college students during the COVID-19 pandemic. Twenty-four undergraduate students with partial PTSD were initially assigned to either an experimental group or a control group, with 11 participants in each group by the study’s end. The experimental group underwent 15 video sessions of the therapy program, completing one session per weekday over 3 weeks. The program involved worksheets targeting goals aligned with positive psychology, such as positive affect, life meaning, personal strengths, gratitude, hope, and happiness. The activities included writing music autobiographies, creating and analyzing song lyrics, and exploring various music pieces. The effectiveness of the intervention was measured using the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scale and the Korean Version of Positive Psychological Capital (K-PPC) before, immediately after, and 3 weeks post-program. The experimental group showed significant improvements in stress (F = 5.759, p < 0.05), anxiety (F = 4.790, p < 0.01), depression (F = 5.740, p < 0.01), self-efficacy (F = 3.723, p < 0.05), resilience (F = 4.739, p < 0.05), and the K-PPC total score (F = 3.740, p < 0.05) compared with the control group. These improvements were maintained at the 3-week follow-up. The findings suggest that positive psychology-based virtual music therapy can significantly enhance the mental health of highly stressed college students, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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13 pages, 4656 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Intelligence in Postoperative Care: Assessing Large Language Models for Patient Recommendations in Plastic Surgery

by Cesar A. Gomez-Cabello, Sahar Borna, Sophia M. Pressman, Syed Ali Haider, Ajai Sehgal, Bradley C. Leibovich and Antonio J. Forte

Healthcare 2024, 12(11), 1083; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12111083 - 24 May 2024

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 2303

Abstract

Since their release, the medical community has been actively exploring large language models’ (LLMs) capabilities, which show promise in providing accurate medical knowledge. One potential application is as a patient resource. This study analyzes and compares the ability of the currently available LLMs, [...] Read more.

Since their release, the medical community has been actively exploring large language models’ (LLMs) capabilities, which show promise in providing accurate medical knowledge. One potential application is as a patient resource. This study analyzes and compares the ability of the currently available LLMs, ChatGPT-3.5, GPT-4, and Gemini, to provide postoperative care recommendations to plastic surgery patients. We presented each model with 32 questions addressing common patient concerns after surgical cosmetic procedures and evaluated the medical accuracy, readability, understandability, and actionability of the models’ responses. The three LLMs provided equally accurate information, with GPT-3.5 averaging the highest on the Likert scale (LS) (4.18 ± 0.93) (p = 0.849), while Gemini provided significantly more readable (p = 0.001) and understandable responses (p = 0.014; p = 0.001). There was no difference in the actionability of the models’ responses (p = 0.830). Although LLMs have shown their potential as adjunctive tools in postoperative patient care, further refinement and research are imperative to enable their evolution into comprehensive standalone resources. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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17 pages, 3206 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Beyond the Clinic Walls: Examining Radiology Technicians’ Experiences in Home-Based Radiography

by Graziano Lepri, Francesco Oddi, Rosario Alfio Gulino and Daniele Giansanti

Healthcare 2024, 12(7), 732; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12070732 - 27 Mar 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1771

Abstract

In recent years, the landscape of diagnostic imaging has undergone a significant transformation with the emergence of home radiology, challenging the traditional paradigm. This shift, bringing diagnostic imaging directly to patients, has gained momentum and has been further accelerated by the global COVID-19 [...] Read more.

In recent years, the landscape of diagnostic imaging has undergone a significant transformation with the emergence of home radiology, challenging the traditional paradigm. This shift, bringing diagnostic imaging directly to patients, has gained momentum and has been further accelerated by the global COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting the increasing importance and convenience of decentralized healthcare services. This study aims to offer a nuanced understanding of the attitudes and experiences influencing the integration of in-home radiography into contemporary healthcare practices. The research methodology involves a survey administered through Computer-Aided Web Interviewing (CAWI) tools, enabling real-time engagement with a diverse cohort of medical radiology technicians in the health domain. A second CAWI tool is submitted to experts to assess their feedback on the methodology. The survey explores key themes, including perceived advantages and challenges associated with domiciliary imaging, its impact on patient care, and the technological intricacies specific to conducting radiologic procedures outside the conventional clinical environment. Findings from a sample of 26 medical radiology technicians (drawn from a larger pool of 186 respondents) highlight a spectrum of opinions and constructive feedback. Enthusiasm is evident for the potential of domiciliary imaging to enhance patient convenience and provide a more patient-centric approach to healthcare. Simultaneously, this study suggests areas of intervention to improve the diffusion of home-based radiology. The methodology based on CAWI tools proves instrumental in the efficiency and depth of data collection, as evaluated by 16 experts from diverse professional backgrounds. The dynamic and responsive nature of this approach allows for a more allocated exploration of technicians’ opinions, contributing to a comprehensive understanding of the evolving landscape of medical imaging services. Emphasis is placed on the need for national and international initiatives in the field, supported by scientific societies, to further explore the evolving landscape of teleradiology and the integration of artificial intelligence in radiology. This study encourages expansion involving other key figures in this practice, including, naturally, medical radiologists, general practitioners, medical physicists, and other stakeholders. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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Review

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15 pages, 1610 KiB

Open AccessReview

Effects of Telerehabilitation on Pain and Disability in Patients with Chronic Neck Pain: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Geraldine Valenza-Peña, Andrés Calvache-Mateo, Marie Carmen Valenza, María Granados-Santiago, Julia Raya-Benítez, Irene Cabrera-Martos and Esther Díaz-Mohedo

Healthcare 2024, 12(7), 796; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12070796 - 6 Apr 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 2557

Abstract

(1) Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis explores the effectiveness of telerehabilitation in patients suffering from chronic neck pain, specifically on pain and disability. The research delves into an area of growing significance within the realm of healthcare, aiming to understand the [...] Read more.

(1) Background: This systematic review and meta-analysis explores the effectiveness of telerehabilitation in patients suffering from chronic neck pain, specifically on pain and disability. The research delves into an area of growing significance within the realm of healthcare, aiming to understand the impact of digital interventions on the rehabilitation process for individuals with prolonged neck pain. (2) Methods: The comprehensive review encompasses a wide array of studies evaluating the collective outcomes of numerous trials focused on telerehabilitation strategies. In this systematic review, PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, and Web of Science databases were systematically searched to identify studies on telerehabilitation’s impact on pain. (3) Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Using the Downs and Black quality assessment, three studies were classified as good and five as fair. The authors identify specific modalities within telerehabilitation, such as remote exercise programs and virtual consultations, that contribute significantly to positive patient outcomes. Meta-analysis indicated a significant overall effect of telerehabilitation on pain reduction (MD = −1.27; 95% CI = −2.06; −0.47; p = 0.002). These findings support telerehabilitation’s efficacy in pain management. (4) Conclusions: The synthesis of evidence presented in this systematic review and meta-analysis underscores the potential of telerehabilitation as an effective and accessible means of managing chronic neck pain, offering valuable insights for both healthcare practitioners and policymakers in advancing patient-centered care. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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Other

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16 pages, 2360 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Exploring the Role of Voice Assistants in Managing Noncommunicable Diseases: A Systematic Review on Clinical, Behavioral Outcomes, Quality of Life, and User Experiences

by Alessia Bramanti, Angelo Corallo, Gennaro Clemente, Luca Greco, Marina Garofano, Massimo Giordano, Claudio Pascarelli, Gianvito Mitrano, Maria Pia Di Palo, Federica Di Spirito, Massimo Amato, Marianna Bartolomeo, Rosaria Del Sorbo, Michele Ciccarelli, Placido Bramanti and Pierluigi Ritrovato

Healthcare 2025, 13(5), 517; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13050517 - 27 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 675

Abstract

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represent a leading cause of global mortality, demanding innovative approaches to management. Voice assistants (VAs) have emerged as promising tools in healthcare, offering support for self-management, behavioral engagement, and patient care. This systematic review evaluates the role of VAs [...] Read more.

Background: Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) represent a leading cause of global mortality, demanding innovative approaches to management. Voice assistants (VAs) have emerged as promising tools in healthcare, offering support for self-management, behavioral engagement, and patient care. This systematic review evaluates the role of VAs in NCD management, analyzing their impact on clinical and behavioral outcomes, quality of life, usability, and user experiences while identifying barriers to their adoption. Methods: A systematic search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science from January 2014 to October 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria using the PRISMA guidelines. Data extraction focused on outcomes such as usability, acceptability, adherence, clinical metrics, and quality of life. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) 2 and ROBINS-I tools. Results: Eight studies involving 541 participants were included, examining VAs across various NCD contexts such as diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and mental health. While VAs demonstrated good usability and moderate adherence, their clinical and quality-of-life outcomes were modest. Behavioral improvements, such as increased physical activity and problem-solving skills, were noted in some interventions. Key challenges included privacy concerns, speech recognition errors, and accessibility issues. Conclusions: VAs show potential as supportive tools in NCD management, especially for enhancing patient engagement and self-management, and their impact on clinical outcomes and long-term usability requires further investigation. Future research should focus on diverse populations, standardized metrics, and comparative studies with alternative technologies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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23 pages, 613 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Interactive Conversational Agents for Perinatal Health: A Mixed Methods Systematic Review

by Samira Amil, Sié-Mathieu-Aymar-Romaric Da, James Plaisimond, Geneviève Roch, Maxime Sasseville, Frédéric Bergeron and Marie-Pierre Gagnon

Healthcare 2025, 13(4), 363; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare13040363 - 8 Feb 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1142

Abstract

Background: Interactive conversational agents (chatbots) simulate human conversation using natural language processing and artificial intelligence. They enable dynamic interactions and are used in various fields, including education and healthcare. Objective: This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize studies on chatbots for women [...] Read more.

Background: Interactive conversational agents (chatbots) simulate human conversation using natural language processing and artificial intelligence. They enable dynamic interactions and are used in various fields, including education and healthcare. Objective: This systematic review aims to identify and synthesize studies on chatbots for women and expectant parents in the preconception, pregnancy, and postnatal period through 12 months postpartum. Methods: We searched in six electronic bibliographic databases (MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCO), Embase, Web of Science, Inspec, and IEEE Xplore) using a pre-defined search strategy. We included sources if they focused on women in the preconception period, pregnant women and their partners, mothers, and fathers/coparents of babies up to 12 months old. Two reviewers independently screened studies and all disagreements were resolved by a third reviewer. Two reviewers independently extracted and validated data from the included studies into a standardized form and conducted quality appraisal. Results: Twelve studies met the inclusion criteria. Seven were from the USA, with others from Brazil, South Korea, Singapore, and Japan. The studies reported high user satisfaction, improved health intentions and behaviors, increased knowledge, and better prevention of preconception risks. Chatbots also facilitated access to health information and interactions with health professionals. Conclusion: We provide an overview of interactive conversational agents used in the perinatal period and their applications. Digital interventions using interactive conversational agents have a positive impact on knowledge, behaviors, attitudes, and the use of health services. Interventions using interactive conversational agents may be more effective than those using methods such as individual or group face-to-face delivery. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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12 pages, 2039 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Effects of Digital Psychotherapy on Suicide: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis

by Jinseok Oh, Jonggab Ho, Sanghee Lee and Jin-Hyuck Park

Healthcare 2024, 12(14), 1435; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12141435 - 18 Jul 2024

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 1576

Abstract

Previous studies reported that digital psychotherapy was a clinically beneficial intervention for suicide ideation. However, the effects of digital psychotherapy on other aspects of suicide beyond ideation remain unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of digital psychotherapy on suicide and depression. Articles [...] Read more.

Previous studies reported that digital psychotherapy was a clinically beneficial intervention for suicide ideation. However, the effects of digital psychotherapy on other aspects of suicide beyond ideation remain unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of digital psychotherapy on suicide and depression. Articles were identified by searching Cochrane, Google Scholar, Medline, PubMed, Web of Science, and PsycINFO in line with the PRISMA statement, yielding nine randomized controlled trials. The difference between conditions regarding suicide and depression in the effect size of the individual article was calculated using Hedges’ g. Most digital psychotherapy interventions were based on cognitive behavioral therapy and delivered via apps or the web for at least six weeks. Suicide outcomes primarily focused on suicide ideation. The findings showed digital psychotherapy achieved a significantly larger effect size for suicide (g = 0.488, p < 0.001) and depression (g = 0.316, p < 0.001), compared to controls. Specifically, digital psychotherapy showed a significant effect on both suicide ideation (g = 0.478, p < 0.001) and other suicidal variables (g = 0.330, p < 0.001). These results suggest the effectiveness of digital psychotherapy in reducing suicide and depression compared to traditional face-to-face therapy. Future research should consider a wider range of outcomes and examine the long-term effectiveness of digital psychotherapy to better understand its effects on suicide prevention. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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14 pages, 1007 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Detection of Arrhythmias Using Smartwatches—A Systematic Literature Review

by Bence Bogár, Dániel Pető, Dávid Sipos, Gábor Füredi, Antónia Keszthelyi, József Betlehem and Attila András Pandur

Healthcare 2024, 12(9), 892; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12090892 - 25 Apr 2024

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 4070

Abstract

Smartwatches represent one of the most widely adopted technological innovations among wearable devices. Their evolution has equipped them with an increasing array of features, including the capability to record an electrocardiogram. This functionality allows users to detect potential arrhythmias, enabling prompt intervention or [...] Read more.

Smartwatches represent one of the most widely adopted technological innovations among wearable devices. Their evolution has equipped them with an increasing array of features, including the capability to record an electrocardiogram. This functionality allows users to detect potential arrhythmias, enabling prompt intervention or monitoring of existing arrhythmias, such as atrial fibrillation. In our research, we aimed to compile case reports, case series, and cohort studies from the Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, and Embase databases published until 1 August 2023. The search employed keywords such as “Smart Watch”, “Apple Watch”, “Samsung Gear”, “Samsung Galaxy Watch”, “Google Pixel Watch”, “Fitbit”, “Huawei Watch”, “Withings”, “Garmin”, “Atrial Fibrillation”, “Supraventricular Tachycardia”, “Cardiac Arrhythmia”, “Ventricular Tachycardia”, “Atrioventricular Nodal Reentrant Tachycardia”, “Atrioventricular Reentrant Tachycardia”, “Heart Block”, “Atrial Flutter”, “Ectopic Atrial Tachycardia”, and “Bradyarrhythmia.” We obtained a total of 758 results, from which we selected 57 articles, including 33 case reports and case series, as well as 24 cohort studies. Most of the scientific works focused on atrial fibrillation, which is often detected using Apple Watches. Nevertheless, we also included articles investigating arrhythmias with the potential for circulatory collapse without immediate intervention. This systematic literature review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of research on arrhythmia detection using smartwatches. Through further research, it may be possible to develop a care protocol that integrates arrhythmias recorded by smartwatches, allowing for timely access to appropriate medical care for patients. Additionally, continuous monitoring of existing arrhythmias using smartwatches could facilitate the assessment of the effectiveness of prescribed therapies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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28 pages, 2204 KiB

Open AccessSystematic Review

Can Digital Technologies Be Useful for Weight Loss in Individuals with Overweight or Obesity? A Systematic Review

by Carmela Protano, Andrea De Giorgi, Federica Valeriani, Elisa Mazzeo, Stefano Zanni, Luigi Cofone, Gabriele D’Ancona, Anis Hasnaoui, Ivano Pindinello, Marise Sabato, Francesca Ubaldi, Veronica Volpini, Vincenzo Romano Spica, Matteo Vitali and Francesca Gallè

Healthcare 2024, 12(6), 670; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12060670 - 16 Mar 2024

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 4818

Abstract

Digital technologies have greatly developed and impacted several aspects of life, including health and lifestyle. Activity tracking, mobile applications, and devices may also provide messages and goals to motivate adopting healthy behaviors, namely physical activity and dietary changes. This review aimed to assess [...] Read more.

Digital technologies have greatly developed and impacted several aspects of life, including health and lifestyle. Activity tracking, mobile applications, and devices may also provide messages and goals to motivate adopting healthy behaviors, namely physical activity and dietary changes. This review aimed to assess the effectiveness of digital resources in supporting behavior changes, and thus influencing weight loss, in people with overweight or obesity. A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023403364). Randomized Controlled Trials published from the database’s inception to 8 November 2023 and focused on digital-based technologies aimed at increasing physical activity for the purpose of weight loss, with or without changes in diet, were considered eligible. In total, 1762 studies were retrieved and 31 met the inclusion criteria. Although they differed in the type of technology used and in their design, two-thirds of the studies reported significantly greater weight loss among electronic device users than controls. Many of these studies reported tailored or specialist-guided interventions. The use of digital technologies may be useful to support weight-loss interventions for people with overweight or obesity. Personalized feedback can increase the effectiveness of new technologies in motivating behavior changes. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Healthcare Goes Digital: Mobile Health and Electronic Health Technology in the 21st Century)

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