Atrial fibrillation virtual ward: reshaping the future of AF care

Abstract Background Atrial fibrillation (AF) hospital admissions represent significant AF related treatment costs nationally. In the year 2019–2020 our reported 1,333 with a primary diagnosis of AF, 10% annual increase. A virtual ambulatory ward providing multidisciplinary care remote hospital-level monitoring could reshape future model management. Methods An was implemented at UK tertiary centre, as proof-of-concept care. Patients admitted satisfying (AFVW) entry criteria (i.e., haemodynamically stable, HR <140 bpm other acute conditions excluded) were given access to single lead ECG recording device, Bluetooth integrated blood pressure machine and pulse oximeter instruction record daily ECGs, readings, oxygen saturations fill an online symptom questionnaire via smart phone or electronic tablet. Data uploaded digital platform for review by clinical team who undertook twice rounds. Medication adjustment arranged through pharmacy. collected prospectively patients between 31 January 11 March 2022. Outcomes included length stay, admission avoidance re-admissions. Re-admission assessed using index parameter re-admission likelihood. Patients' satisfaction NHS family friends' test (FFT). Results Over 6-week period total 14 enrolled. One patient unable be onboarded because technology anxiety 13 ward, 30.7% (n=4) did not have phones provided tablets. The age on 64±10 years (mean±SD) oldest 78 age. All in mean heart rate 122±24 bpm, 38.5% (n=5) discharged from sinus rhythm. directly pacemaker clinic hence completely avoided, 5 re-admissions avoided 3 patients. required brief readmission due persistent tachycardia requiring cardioversion. FFT yielded 100% positive responses among Conclusion This is first real world experience fast AF. It demonstrates promising new telemedicine-based clear appetite both health professionals. has potential reduce financial backlog pressures caused without compromising patients' safety. Work ongoing further confirm safety cost-effectiveness upon progress larger cohort. Funding Acknowledgement Type funding sources: None.