Clinical Research Directory

The Italian Alliance for Cardiovascular Rehabilitation and Prevention (ITACARE-P) Registry: An Observational Study on Cardiac Rehabilitation in Patients With Coronary Disease or Heart Failure

ITACARE-P CardioRehab Registry is a nationwide observational study conducted in Italy and coordinated by the Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi in Milan. It involves multiple hospitals and rehabilitation centers across the country and aims to better understand how cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is delivered to patients recovering from heart conditions (coronary deseases and/or heart failure). CR is a structured program that includes exercise, lifestyle education, and psychological support, and is known to improve recovery, reduce future cardiac events, lower hospital readmissions, and enhance quality of life. Despite strong recommendations from international guidelines, not all eligible patients are referred to CR, and its delivery varies. This study collects real-world data to describe how CR programs are implemented, evaluate patient outcomes, identify subgroups needing tailored care, and support improvements in cardiac care services in Italy. Adults who recently experienced a qualifying heart condition are enrolled and followed during their standard rehabilitation, without any changes to treatment. Data on medical history, risk factors, quality of life, functional improvements, and medication use are collected, with follow-up at 6 and 12 months. Participation involves no added risks, and personal health data is securely managed according to EU GDPR regulations using the REDCap system. The study aims to enhance the quality, consistency, and equity of cardiac rehabilitation across the country.

A Comparative Pilot Study on the Effectiveness of Nurse-Led and LINE Robot-Guided Cardiac Rehabilitation Referrals

The goal of this pragmatic randomized trial is to compare the effectiveness of nurse-led versus LINE bot-guided strategies on patient referrals for cardiac rehabilitation in patients with acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, or status post coronary artery bypass surgery, aged 18 years and older. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does a nurse-led referral strategy increase cardiac rehabilitation referrals, attendance, and participation compared to routine care? Can a LINE bot-guided system improve cardiac rehabilitation referrals, attendance, and participation? Researchers will compare Intervention Group A (nurse-led face-to-face education), Intervention Group B (LINE bot automated referral system), and a Control Group (routine care) to see if nurse-led or LINE bot strategies are more effective in increasing referrals, attendance, and participation in cardiac rehabilitation programs. Participants will: Be randomly assigned to one of three groups. Participate in either nurse-led education, receive automated LINE bot reminders, or undergo standard care. Have their cardiac rehabilitation referrals, attendance, and participation tracked for 12 weeks post-discharge through the hospital's medical record system. This study seeks to provide healthcare professionals with evidence-based strategies for improving cardiac rehabilitation processes and enhancing patient engagement in rehabilitation programs.