Not yet recruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Acceptability of a Nurse-led Telehealth Remote Self-monitoring Model of Care in Patients With Rheumatoid Arthritis

This Canadian study is exploring a new way for people with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) to manage their condition. It focuses on using a nurse-led online system where patients can check their health from home. The main goal is to see if this new approach is easy to use, fits well into clinic routines, and is helpful for both patients and healthcare staff. This could make it easier for people with RA, especially those living far from hospitals, to get high-quality care and help nurses manage appointments more effectively. About 100 adults with RA who have recently had a flare-up or medication change will take part, some using the online tool straight away, while others will continue with their usual care first.

At a glance

Status

Not yet recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

CHU de Quebec-Universite Laval

Enrolment target

104

Start

01 May 2026

Estimated completion

01 Dec 2027

Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA)

What is this study about?

This study is looking for better ways to support people in Canada who live with Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA). RA is a condition where your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your joints, causing pain and swelling. Currently, it can be difficult for some people, especially those in more remote areas, to regularly see a specialist doctor (rheumatologist) or nurse. This can lead to delays in getting a diagnosis or adjusting treatments when needed. This study hopes to bridge that gap using new technology.

The research team is testing a new system where specialist nurses can help patients monitor their RA from home using an online platform. The idea is that patients will regularly complete online health questionnaires, which the nurse will review. The nurse can then give advice, provide helpful information, and answer questions through messages. This means patients might not have to travel as often for appointments, making care more convenient and accessible, while still ensuring they get the attention they need.

The main aim of the study is to see if this new nurse-led online monitoring system is practical and helpful for both patients and healthcare workers. They want to know if people find it easy to use, if it fits well into their lives and clinic routines, and if it improves how RA is managed. Ultimately, if successful, this new way of working could help ensure everyone with RA receives timely, high-quality care, no matter where they live.

Key takeaways

New study in Canada focusing on Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) care.
Tests a nurse-led online system for checking health from home.
Aims to make RA care more accessible and convenient.
Participation involves monthly online questionnaires and nurse feedback.
Could help patients, especially those living far from clinics.
Seeks to understand if this new method is useful and easy to use.

Who may be eligible?

You might be able to join this study if you are an adult, aged 18 or older, and have been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis for at least six months. It's important that you've had a recent flare-up (meaning your RA symptoms got worse) or a change in your RA medication within the last three months.

To take part, you also need to be able to understand either French or English, and have access to the internet. The study uses an online platform, so internet access is essential.

However, you wouldn't be able to join if you can't give your consent (agreement) to be part of the study, are unable to fill out questionnaires, or do not have internet access.

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 been diagnosed with Rheumatoid Arthritis for at least six months?
Have you had a flare-up or medication change for your RA in the last three months?
Do you have access to the internet and can complete online questionnaires?
Can you understand explanations in English or French?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, you'll be one of 104 adults with Rheumatoid Arthritis. Some participants will start using the online self-monitoring tool right away, and they will use it for 16 months. Others will continue with their usual RA care for 8 months first, and then start using the online tool for another 8 months.

When you are using the online tool, you will be asked to fill out questionnaires about your health once a month. These questionnaires will be online, and a specialist rheumatology nurse will review your answers. The nurse might then suggest care, send you personalised health information, and be available to answer your questions through online messages. The study doesn't involve new medications, but focuses on how your existing care is monitored and managed remotely. The overall duration you'll be actively involved in the study will be either 16 months or 8 months, depending on which group you're in.

Potential risks and benefits

A potential benefit of joining this study is that you might find the remote monitoring system more convenient, allowing you to manage your RA with fewer trips to the clinic. This could help between your regular doctor visits and provide timely support from a nurse. As with any new approach, there's always a chance it might not suit everyone, or there could be technical issues with the online platform. However, the study aims to assess and improve how the system works. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason, and your decision will not affect your ongoing medical care.

Locations (4)

Hopital general de Montreal
Verified postcode
Montreal, Canada
Centre de l'ostéporose et de rhumatologie de Québec
Verified postcode
Québec, Canada
CHU de Quebec-Universite Laval
Verified postcode
Québec, Canada
Hopital Fleurimont et Hotel Dieu de Sherbrooke
Verified postcode
Sherbrooke, Canada

Common questions

What is 'telehealth remote self-monitoring'?

It means using online tools and technology to check your health from home, with support from a nurse, instead of always going to a clinic in person.

Do I have to stop seeing my regular doctor if I join?

No, this study is about adding new ways to support your RA care, not replacing your regular doctor visits. Your usual care continues.

What kind of questions will I answer online?

The questionnaires will ask about your RA symptoms, how you're feeling, and other health-related information to help nurses understand your condition.

Is this study only for people in Canada?

Yes, this specific study is being conducted in four clinics in Quebec, Canada, and is focused on improving care there.

Will I get personalised advice from a nurse?

Yes, a rheumatology nurse will review your monthly answers and can provide personalised health information and answer your questions through messages.

How to find out more

Laetitia Michou, MD PhD

laetitia.michou@crchudequebec.ulaval.ca +14185254444 Official trial record

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