Feasibility of an e-Health-based physical activity coaching intervention during pulmonary rehabilitation for people with COPD (Preprint)

UNSTRUCTURED Physical inactivity is a modifiable and significant trait in people with COPD. While traditional exercise-based pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) improves symptoms and exercise tolerance, its impact on physical activity (PA) levels remains limited. Digital health (eHealth) interventions may help address this gap. This study assessed the feasibility of integrating an eHealth PA coaching intervention into PR for people with COPD. Patients enrolled in an outpatient PR programme were recruited for a 3-week PA coaching intervention, which used a smartband connected to a mobile patient app and a web app for healthcare professionals (HCPs). The intervention included PA monitoring (steps/day), weekly goal setting, and application (app) notifications for goal updates, achievement, and motivational messages. Weekly telephone calls supported goal adjustment and identification of PA barriers. The acceptability of the intervention was explored through a patient focus group. Five patients with COPD (67±9 years, 4 female; FEV1 49±23%pred) participated. The recruitment rate was 83%, with 100% retention and adherence to the intervention (daily synchronisation). No adverse events or PA barriers were identified. One reported app connection issue was resolved by restarting the app. Patients found the app easy to use and helpful for their PA and remote monitoring by healthcare professionals (HCPs). Weekly goal adjustments and HCP contact were valued. Limitations regarding the app’s use included a lack of personalisation, goal setting restricted to steps, and occasional step miscounts. The intervention was feasible and well-accepted. Future studies with a larger sample are needed to assess the impact of the intervention on PA outcomes.