RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Telemonitoring of Hypertensive Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease

This study investigates how digital home blood pressure monitoring can help people in remote parts of Canada who have both high blood pressure and chronic kidney disease. High blood pressure can worsen kidney disease, and remote patients often have less access to specialist care. The research compares two approaches over a year: one group uses home monitoring with a dedicated case manager who helps adjust medication, while the other uses home monitoring but only shares results with their regular GP or nurse. The main goal is to see if having a case manager leads to better blood pressure control. Researchers will also look at costs, how easy the system is to use, and any side effects. The hope is to find better ways to support high-risk patients in remote communities.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

University of Alberta

Enrolment target

146

Start

15 Apr 2022

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2026

Chronic Kidney Diseases

What is this study about?

This study is looking into a new way to help people who live in remote areas and have two health problems: high blood pressure (hypertension) and long-term kidney disease (chronic kidney disease, or CKD). Having both conditions means you're at a higher risk of your kidney disease getting worse and other heart-related issues. People in remote areas often find it harder to see specialists, which can make managing these conditions tougher.

Traditionally, blood pressure is checked at a doctor's office. This study explores using a home blood pressure monitor that sends your readings directly to a healthcare team – often called 'telemonitoring'. This system has shown promise in helping people without kidney disease control their blood pressure better. The main aim here is to see if this method can specifically help patients with kidney disease in remote communities improve their blood pressure, which is crucial for kidney health. They want to find out if it's more effective when there's an extra layer of support, like a dedicated nurse or case manager, involved.

The researchers will compare two groups of patients. Both groups will use the home blood pressure telemonitoring system. One group will also have a case manager who will review their readings and suggest medication changes to their doctor to help get their blood pressure to a healthy target. The other group will use the same monitoring system but will only share their readings with their usual doctor or nurse during regular appointments. Over one year, the study will measure if blood pressure improves more in one group than the other. They'll also check if the system is good value for money, easy for patients to use, and safe.

Key takeaways

Tests a home blood pressure monitoring system for remote patients.
Aims to improve blood pressure control in people with kidney disease.
Compares home monitoring with a case manager versus usual care.
Participation lasts for one year.
Requires a smartphone and internet access.
Could help shape future care for similar patients.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with chronic kidney disease (but not advanced kidney failure or needing dialysis) and high blood pressure. You would also need to live in the Peace River region of Alberta, Canada.

To take part, you'd need to own a smartphone (like an iPhone or Android) and have access to the internet. You should also be able to understand and communicate in English and be willing to use the home blood pressure monitoring device regularly.

There are certain reasons you might not be able to join, such as having very severe kidney disease, certain heart problems, or another serious illness with a short life expectancy. If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or already taking part in another drug trial, you wouldn't be able to join this study. Also, if you plan to move out of the study area or live somewhere without mobile phone signal, you wouldn't be eligible.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years or older?
Do you have a diagnosis of chronic kidney disease (not severe kidney failure or on dialysis)?
Do you have high blood pressure and take medication for it?
Do you live in the Peace River region of Alberta, Canada?
Do you own a smartphone and have internet access?
Are you able to communicate in English?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you'll be placed into one of two groups by chance – like flipping a coin. Both groups will use a home blood pressure telemonitoring system.

If you're in the first group, you'll measure your blood pressure four times a day for one week. A study case manager will then look at these readings and work with your primary care doctor to adjust your blood pressure medication until your blood pressure reaches a target of less than 130 mmHg (systolic). Once your blood pressure is controlled, you'll repeat this one-week blood pressure monitoring and review process every three months for a year.

If you're in the second group, you'll follow the same blood pressure measurement schedule (four times a day for one week, then every three months). However, you won't have a case manager checking your readings or suggesting medication changes. Instead, you'll share your home blood pressure readings with your usual doctor or nurse practitioner at your regular appointments. The total duration of your participation in this study would be one year.

Potential risks and benefits

Taking part in this study might offer the benefit of more closely monitored blood pressure, which could lead to better control of your blood pressure and potentially better management of your kidney disease. You would also be contributing to important research that could help people with similar conditions, especially those in remote areas. Potential risks are generally low, as blood pressure monitoring is a standard medical procedure. However, there's always a small chance of issues with the technology itself, and you'll need a smartphone and internet access. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and it will not affect your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

University of Alberta
Verified postcode
Edmonton, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'telemonitoring'?

Telemonitoring means using technology, like a special blood pressure machine at home, to send your health readings directly to your healthcare team without needing to visit the clinic every time.

Why is this study focusing on people in remote areas?

People in remote areas often have less access to specialist doctors, so researchers want to see if home monitoring can help bridge this gap and improve their care.

Will my doctor know I'm in the study?

Yes, your primary care doctor will be involved, especially if you're in the group that shares readings directly with them, or if a case manager suggests medication changes.

Do I need to pay for the blood pressure monitor?

The study should provide the home blood pressure monitoring device you need to participate. You generally would not have to pay for it.

What if I have trouble using the technology?

The study team will likely provide training on how to use the device. If you're struggling, it's important to tell them, as this is one of the things they are looking to understand.

How to find out more

Deenaz Zaidi

deenaz@ualberta.ca 17807098964 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.