What this Trial Is About

This is a stepped wedge, cluster-randomized study, that will implement a digital-first, multi-component strategy for Heart Failure (HF) to improve HF self-care at 6 Regional Referral Hospital (RRH) outpatient departments in Uganda. The investigators will evaluate both implementation and clinical outcomes using mixed methods. . First, investigators will assess the implementation and clinical effectiveness of an enhanced standard-of-care clinical bundle, and a digital health intervention to improve HF self-care in Uganda (Aim 1). To do this, the investigators will conduct a stepped-wedge, cluster randomized trial that includes a brief control period followed by a clinical care service bundle for HF (Core HF), followed by the introduction of the digital health application (Medly Uganda). The co-primary outcomes will be the Self-Care of HF Index (implementation) and the composite of mortality and HF hospitalization (clinical effectiveness). To ensure standardized basic HF care which will augment self-care, investigators will train providers in an evidence-based HF clinical care service bundle (Core HF) including a care protocol (treatment algorithm for HF), self-care training for patients and providers, and medication stock management prior to the introduction of the digital health intervention (Medly Uganda). Medly Uganda will utilize a patient-facing mobile health application designed to improve self-care among patients with HF. Its principal components are: 1) a patient-facing mobile application that processes patient-reported symptoms and generates algorithm-driven messages to guide self-care and symptom management and 2) a clinician-facing internet dashboard that monitors symptom reports and facilitates nurse-guided management recommendations and physician backup support. The project supports an integrated, digital interface at participating hospitals to monitor and intervene with patients using the mobile health application.

ImpleMEntation of a Digital-first Care deLiverY Model for Heart Failure in Uganda