Implementation of a Telerehabilitation Device for Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patients in a Rehabilitation Program on The Faroe Islands: Exploring Opportunities and Barriers

Abstract

Introduction: Cardiovascular disease, affecting over 607 million worldwide, is a leading cause of death, with coronary artery disease representing a significant portion. Coronary artery bypass grafting is the most common surgical intervention for severe coronary artery disease. Inadequate rehabilitation increases the risk of health decline and readmission, amplifying healthcare costs. Challenges maintaining adherence to center-based cardiac rehabilitation long-term prompts alternative exploration. Telerehabilitation, often home-based, emerges as a promising solution. Despite technological progress, global implementation of telerehabilitation devices for coronary artery bypass graft patients in rehabilitation programs remains unexplored. Method: Employing a qualitative case study design, factors influencing the b-near touch screen solution implementation at Suðuroy Hospital (Faroe Islands) were explored. Data collection involved document materials, direct non-participant observations and semi-structured interviews with 7 participants. Analysis with NVivo followed principles by Kvale and Brinkmann and the Normalization Process Theory. Findings: The case study revealed both opportunities and barriers. At Suðuroy Hospital, the b-near touch screen solution proves advantageous by facilitating training as well as communication between healthcare providers and patients, enabling patients to effortlessly manage the technology, and eliminating the need for transportation to the hospital. However, barriers such as lack of social interaction and potential difficulties in comprehending training audio were also identified. Conclusion: The telerehabilitation device implementation for Coronary artery bypass graft patients reveals unique factors. The Faroe Islands' European Union non-membership enables the use of non-medical devices like the b-near system, improving patient accessibility. The study highlights opportunities and barriers, emphasizing the need to integrate findings into Suðuroy Hospital's implementation strategy. Overcoming the barriers is essential for successful b-near system implementation, enhancing coronary artery bypass graft patient care. Keywords: coronary artery bypass grafting, cardiac rehabilitation, implementation, technology, telerehabilitation.

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Implementation of a Telerehabilitation Device for Post-Coronary Artery Bypass Graft Patients in a Rehabilitation Program on The Faroe Islands: Exploring Opportunities and Barriers