Evaluating BloodTrackR Home Blood Collection Device and Mobile App to Support Remote Monitoring in Adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating BloodTrackR, a novel home-based blood collection device and mobile app, for people with rheumatoid arthritis. This study aims to determine how easy the device and app are to use, whether participants can collect high-quality blood samples at home, and how the results compare to standard blood samples taken by a phlebotomist. The goal is to reduce dependence on NHS phlebotomy services and improve remote monitoring. Participants will receive the BloodTrackR device by post and receive remote training on its use through Microsoft Teams. They will collect finger-prick blood samples at home and complete symptom assessments via the app. Samples will be returned by mail for comparison with venous blood drawn by a qualified phlebotomist visiting the participants home. Feedback on usability will be collected through questionnaires and interviews. Additionally, a health economic analysis will assess potential cost and workload savings for the NHS. Participants will be monitored for usability, sample quality, and concordance with standard blood tests. Assessments include questionnaires completed immediately after device use, interviews up to one month later, and comparison of C-reactive protein levels between sample types. The study will also measure time and workload savings and estimate costs associated with blood collection. Participation involves remote training, home sampling, sample return by post, and scheduled interviews, with the entire study expected to conclude by December 2026.

BloodTrackR Usability and Concordance Study (BUCS): Evaluating a Smart Home-Based Blood Collection Platform for Remote Monitoring in Rheumatoid Arthritis