Abstract
Introduction:
The efficacy of telemedicine in cancer survivors is uncertain. The Smart After-care Program (SAP), which is an interactive, smartphone-based remote health monitoring system, was developed to help individual patients manage their health after leaving the hospital. This study aims to evaluate the efficacy of our remote health care program for lung cancer patients.
Methods
We enrolled 50 lung cancer patients. Self-monitoring devices were supplied to all patients, who were instructed to enter their daily vital signs and subjective symptoms to the Smart After-care app. The app also provided information about rehabilitation exercises and a healthy diet for lung cancer patients. All patients received telephone health counseling once a week and visited an outpatient clinic on the 6th and 12th week to assess satisfaction with the SAP and changes in quality of life and physical performance.
Results
Overall satisfaction with the SAP was very high (very good, 61.9%; good, 26.2%). In the multivariate analysis for factors affecting satisfaction, the distance between the patient’s residence and the hospital was the only independent factor (p = 0.013). Quality of life was improved in all functional scales (p < 0.05). Muscle strength was significantly improved in the lower limbs (p = 0.012). Two-minute walk distance was also significantly improved (p = 0.028).
Conclusion
This study demonstrated that the SAP was acceptable among and supportive of patients with reduced pulmonary function after lung cancer treatment. The study proved that the SAP was more useful for patients living far away from a hospital.
Evaluation of Smart After-Care Program for Patients With Lung Cancer
