Internet-based program to enhance cardiac rehabilitation for coronary artery disease patients

An Internet-based Cardiac Rehabilitation Enhancement (i-CARE) Intervention to Support Self-care of Patients With Coronary Artery Disease: A Mixed-method Study

Not applicable Interventional The University of Hong Kong · NCT04858503

This study tests whether an online program can help people with coronary artery disease improve their self-care and overall health, especially if they can't attend traditional rehab sessions.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment268 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorThe University of Hong Kong Academic / other
Locations1 site (Hong Kong)
Trial IDNCT04858503 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study examines the effects of an internet-based cardiac rehabilitation enhancement (i-CARE) program designed for patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). It focuses on improving self-care behaviors, clinical outcomes, and health-related quality of life through a mobile app and nurse-led support. The program aims to empower patients to manage their condition effectively, especially those with limited time for traditional rehabilitation activities. The study will also explore the underlying mechanisms of how the i-CARE intervention influences health behaviors and outcomes.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older with a confirmed diagnosis of coronary artery disease who have access to a smartphone and the internet.

Not a fit: Patients currently enrolled in structured cardiac rehabilitation programs or those with severe psychiatric issues or cognitive impairments may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve self-care and health outcomes for patients with coronary artery disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown positive outcomes with internet-delivered interventions for chronic disease management, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* ≥18 years of age
* living in the community,
* own a smartphone with internet access,
* communicable in Cantonese,
* type in Chinese or English,
* with a confirmed diagnosis of CAD.

Exclusion Criteria:

* enrolled to a structured centre-based or home-based cardiac rehabilitation program, (2) psychiatric problems,
* impaired cognitive functioning (i.e. Abbreviated Mental Test ≤6), and
* terminal disease with life expectancy \< 1 year.

Where this trial is running

Hong Kong

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Coronary Artery DiseaseSelf-careModel of careMobile appEmpowermentNurse-ledDisease ManagementRisk factor control
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.