Behaviour change techniques and intervention characteristics in digital cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials

Kenny, E., Coyne, R., McEvoy, J. W., McSharry, J., Taylor, R. S. and Byrne, M. (2023) Behaviour change techniques and intervention characteristics in digital cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials. Health Psychology Review, (doi: 10.1080/17437199.2023.2185653) (PMID:36892523) (Early Online Publication)

Abstract

Evidence suggests that digitally delivered cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is likely to be an effective alternative to centre-based CR. However, there is limited understanding of the behaviour change techniques (BCTs) and intervention characteristics included in digital CR programmes. This systematic review aimed to identify the BCTs and intervention characteristics that have been used in digital CR programmes, and to study those associated with effective programmes. Twenty-five randomised controlled trials were included in the review. Digital CR was associated with significant improvements in daily steps, light physical activity, medication adherence, functional capacity, and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol when compared to usual care, and produced effects on these outcomes comparable to centre-based CR. The evidence for improved quality of life was mixed. Interventions that were effective at improving behavioural outcomes frequently employed BCTs relating to feedback and monitoring, goals and planning, natural consequences, and social support. Completeness of reporting on the TIDieR checklist across studies ranged from 42% to 92%, with intervention material descriptions being the most poorly reported item. Digital CR appears effective at improving outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease. The integration of certain BCTs and intervention characteristics may lead to more effective interventions, however better intervention reporting is required.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: This work was supported by the Health Research Board [Ireland Collaborative Doctoral Award 2019 [CDA-2019-001].
• Status: Early Online Publication
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Taylor, Professor Rod
• Authors: Kenny, E., Coyne, R., McEvoy, J. W., McSharry, J., Taylor, R. S., and Byrne, M.
• College/School: College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > MRC/CSO SPHSU; College of Medical Veterinary and Life Sciences > School of Health & Wellbeing > Robertson Centre
• Journal Name: Health Psychology Review
• Publisher: Taylor and Francis
• ISSN: 1743-7199
• ISSN (Online): 1743-7202
• Published Online: 09 March 2023
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2023 The Authors
• First Published: First published in Health Psychology Review 2023
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced under a Creative Commons License