Feasibility of Smartphone-Based Physical Activity Tele-Coaching in Lung Transplant Recipients; an Interim Analysis

Purpose
The COVID-19 pandemic has increased the demand for tele-medicine, particularly for lung transplant (LTX) recipients who are immunosuppressed and often live far from transplant centres. We report the feasibility of a 3-month semi-automated tele-coaching intervention in this population.
Methods
The intervention consists of a pedometer and smartphone app, allowing transmission of activity data to a platform (Linkcare v2.7) that provides feedback, activity goals, education and contact with the researcher as required. Remote assessment pre- and post-intervention included patient acceptability using a project specific questionnaire, physical activity using accelerometry (Actigraph GT3X), HADS and the SF-36 questionnaire.
Results
So far, all eligible patients approached were willing to be randomised to the intervention or usual care (n=14; COPD=4, ILD=7; CF=1; PH=2). For the intervention, usage of the pedometer was excellent, with patients wearing it for 6.9±0.1 days/week and rating the pedometer and telephone contact (9±2 out of 10) as the most vital aspects. Patient feedback has been positive, with 80% of patients responding that they ‘liked’ taking part and that it ‘helped them a lot’ to increase their activity levels. Daily steps and VMU are presented in Figure 1 and SF-36 scores in Figure 2. There were no changes in HADS scores between groups. Conclusion
Tele-coaching appears feasible in LTX recipients, with patients showing excellent adherence and providing positive feedback after 3 months. This is promising, with the on-going need to develop and evaluate ways of supporting patients remotely.