Implementation of SintromacWeb(R), a new internet-based tool for oral anticoagulation therapy telecontrol: Study on system consistency and patient satisfaction

• Published in: Thrombosis and haemostasis Vol. 103; no. 5; p. 1091
• Main Authors: Ferrando, Fernando, Mira, Yolanda, Contreras, María Teresa, Aguado, Cristina, Aznar, José Antonio
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Germany 01.05.2010
• Subjects: Administration, Oral; Adolescent; Adult; Aged; Aged, 80 and over; Anticoagulants - therapeutic use; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Female; Follow-Up Studies; Humans; International Normalized Ratio; Internet; Male; Middle Aged; Patient Satisfaction; Physician-Patient Relations; Point-of-Care Systems; Software; Surveys and Questionnaires; Telemetry
• ISSN: 0340-6245
• DOI: 10.1160/TH09-07-0469

Most computer- or internet-assisted systems for oral anticoagulation therapy (OAT) telemanagement have limitations when it comes to implementation within a healthcare center. It was the objective of this study to evaluate convenience and patient satisfaction with the use of SintromacWeb, a new OAT telecontrol system, compared with the conventional control. SintromacWeb consists of a point-of-care device for patient international normalized ratio (INR) self-testing and software that allows internet mediated interaction with physicians. Patients initiated the use of SintromacWeb and were followed up during a three-month period. A score-based questionnaire was completed in three controlled visits, and data were subsequently analysed. A total of 102 patients were enrolled. At first visit, 55.7% of the patients had their INR within normal range, and 64.9% at the final visit. Internal consistency of the questionnaire was good (Cronbach's a: 0.79). Scores in the questionnaire were independent of patient's age, education level, working status and INR value. The most valued features of SintromacWeb were: fewer visits to the hospital, simplicity and convenience of the system, and time administration for control tasks (86.7%, 82.7% and 77.6% of very satisfied patients, respectively). Also, patients showed indifference or were dissatisfied with the conventional system. At the final visit, 99% of patients declared that they were satisfied with their OAT control. Moreover, all patients continued using SintromacWeb after completion of the study. In conclusion, SintromacWeb telecontrol is a new model for management of anticoagulated patients. It was highly accepted and can be used by all patients regardless of their sociodemographic characteristics.