Designing and Evaluating an Education-based Follow-up System for Cardiac Patients

Introduction: Chronic diseases are among the most challenging health issues in the world. Although no definitive treatment has been found for such diseases, electronic health strategies can dramatically reduce their complications by enhancing patientschr('39') awareness and monitoring their treatment. The main objective of this study was to design an education-based follow-up system for cardiac patients based on mHealth. Method: This research was an applied-developmental one. To determine the data elements, a questionnaire was developed and needs assessment was conducted with the faculty members at University of Mazandaran and 2 health system specialists. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and after identifying the entities, the conceptual model of the system was designed and implemented based on the Unified Modeling Language (UML). The questionnaire was finally provided to 30 cardiac patients to assess its usability and user satisfaction. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with SPSS Software (version 16). Results: Some modifications were made to the system based on end users’ opinions and ultimately the system was developed with 7 parts including interaction with physician, remote visit, training, notification of medication intake, prescription, follow-up monitoring of patients, and communication with the emergency ward. The final evaluation of usability and user satisfaction showed that users rated the program with a mean score of 7.17 out of 9 at a good level. Conclusion: Given that users evaluated the system as good, it can provide effective interaction between physician and patient and monitor patient care along with ongoing training to improve the treatment process.