The TEACH (Texting After ACS Discharge) Pilot Randomized Trial
This study, called TEACH, is exploring how simple text messages might help people who have recently been in hospital for a heart attack. Heart attacks are a serious health problem, and many people need to go back to hospital within a year of their first attack. Doctors are looking for new ways to support patients, especially as more people use mobile phones. The study wants to see if sending helpful texts can encourage patients to manage their health better, such as remembering appointments and taking their medication. It also hopes to reduce the number of times people need to be readmitted to hospital. This research is important because it could make it easier for people to get ongoing support after a heart attack, using technology most of us already have.
At a glance
What is this study about?
Heart attacks are a major health concern, and many people need to go back to hospital within a year of their first attack. Even with modern treatments, living a healthy life after a heart attack is really important, but it can be challenging for some people to keep up with their medicines and appointments.
This study, called 'TEACH' (Texting After ACS Discharge), is looking at a new way to help. Most people in the UK have a mobile phone and use text messages. The researchers want to find out if sending regular, helpful text messages to people who have recently had a heart attack could improve their care. They are hoping these messages might remind people about their health, encourage them to take their medication as prescribed, and attend follow-up appointments. The main idea is to see if this simple mobile technology can make a real difference to a patient's recovery and reduce how often they need to be readmitted to hospital.
The world of healthcare is changing, especially after events like the COVID-19 pandemic, with more care moving online and through digital tools. This study is an important step in understanding how mobile phone-based support could become a regular part of care for people recovering from heart attacks. It's an innovative approach that uses common technology to help people manage their health better from home.
Key takeaways
- The study explores if text messages can help heart attack patients recover.
- It aims to reduce hospital readmissions and improve medication taking.
- You need a mobile phone and be able to text in English to join.
- Participation involves either receiving texts or standard care for a year.
- Information will mainly be collected from existing medical records.
- You can stop participating at any time without affecting your care.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be at least 18 years old. You must also have recently been in Sunnybrook Hospital because of a heart attack or a similar heart condition.
Crucially, you need to have a mobile phone that can send and receive text messages. You also need to be able to understand and reply to messages in English so you can take part fully.
If you can't give your permission to be part of the study in English, or if you don't have a mobile phone that can text, then unfortunately, this study wouldn't be suitable for you.
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 old or older?
- Have you recently been in Sunnybrook Hospital for a heart attack or similar heart problem?
- Do you own a mobile phone that can send and receive text messages?
- Can you understand and respond to text messages in English?
- Can you give your permission to join the study in English?
What does participation involve?
If you join this study, you would be split into two groups by chance – like flipping a coin. One group would receive regular text messages related to your heart health. The other group, called the 'control' group, would not receive these text messages, but would continue to get the usual care you would expect after a heart attack.
The study would then follow your progress for one year after you leave hospital. Researchers would look at how often you see your doctor, how consistently you take your prescribed medicines, and if you need to be readmitted to hospital. This information would mostly be gathered from your existing medical records, so you wouldn't typically need extra hospital visits just for the study. The total duration of your active involvement in receiving texts or being monitored is one year.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- Sunnybrook Health Sciences CentreVerified postcodeToronto, Canada
Common questions
What exactly are the text messages about?
The text messages are designed to be helpful reminders and supportive information related to your heart health and recovery after a heart attack.
Do I have to pay for the text messages?
No, you will not have to pay for any text messages sent to you as part of this study.
Will my doctor know I'm in the study?
The study team will need certain information from your medical records, so your doctor's team would be aware of your participation to help gather this data.
What if I miss a text message?
The study looks at the overall impact of the text messages, so missing one will not be a problem. The most important thing is to manage your health as best you can.
How long does the study last for me?
Your participation would last for one year after you are discharged from the hospital following your heart attack.
How to find out more
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
Discussion
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