RA-ACTIVE – Novel Virtual Multidisciplinary Patient Activation and Group Therapy Program for Rheumatoid Arthritis Patients at Tan Tock Seng Hospital: A 12-month Pilot Study
Care Continuum
Care Process & Redesign
Technology
Centre for Allied Health & Pharmacy Excellence
National Healthcare Group
31 December 2023
Investigate the impact of multidisciplinary virtual patient activation and group therapy on chronic stable rheumatoid. RA-ACTIVE successfully improved physical fitness, emotional well-being, and access to care for RA patients.
Year Submitted: 2023
Published Date: 31 December 2023
Tags: Care Process ＆ Redesign, Technology, Access To Care, Care Continuum, Chronic Care, Telehealth
About this Content
Aims
Investigate the impact of multidisciplinary virtual patient activation and group therapy on chronic stable rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients.
Background
RA patients suffer joint pain, poor fitness, and low adherence to activity. COVID-19 highlighted the need for virtual care solutions.
Methods
Weekly 30-min virtual group exercises for 8 weeks, guided by physiotherapists. Psychologist-led behavioral sessions on weeks 2, 4, and 7.
Results
19 participants completed. Significant improvement: 6MWT (+64.2m, p=0.005), timed stand test (+1.6 reps, p=0.016), HADs (A: p=0.024, D: p=0.008).
Conclusion
RA-ACTIVE successfully improved physical fitness, emotional well-being, and access to care for RA patients. Promising alternative to traditional care models.
Lessons Learnt
Larger sample size recommended. Exercises should be tailored to individual fitness levels.
Additional Information
Funded by CAPE Grant
Keywords
Rheumatoid Arthritis, Telehealth, Virtual Exercise, Multidisciplinary Care, Patient Activation
Innovators' Details
Innovators' Details
Healthcare Cluster(s) | National Healthcare Group |
Organization(s) Involved | Tan Tock Seng Hospital |
Platform(s) | Centre for Allied Health & Pharmacy Excellence |
Healthcare Professional Group(s) | Allied Health, Medical |
Applicable Specialty or Discipline | Rheumatology, Allergy ＆ Immunology, Physiotherapy, Psychology |
Project Lead(s) | Ong Hao Xu |
Project Member(s) | Quek Li Xian |
Connect with this contributor!
Ong Hao Xu - hao_xu_ong@ttsh.com.sg