Testing LiverWatch, a Home-Based Remote-Monitoring Intervention for Advanced Liver Disease
University of Pennsylvania
Summary
Remote healthcare monitoring for cirrhosis has shown promise in overcoming barriers to accessing specialty care, improving healthcare quality, and reducing mortality. The LiverWatch study is investigating whether a remote nutrition, physical activity, and education intervention can improve health outcomes in those with cirrhosis. In this clinical trial, individuals will be randomized to either enhanced usual care or the LiverWatch intervention. Both groups are given fitbits and asked to increase their step counts. Those in the Liverwatch group will be incentivized for increase their physical activity while also undergoing a personalized nutrition intervention and weekly symptom monitoring and cirrhosis education.
Description
Liver cirrhosis is a chronic condition with a high symptom burden, morbidity, mortality and costs. Common symptoms and reasons for hospitalizations in cirrhosis are 'fluid overload' (e.g. abdominal and leg swelling), hepatic encephalopathy (episodic cognitive impairment), physical frailty, and infections. Pilot and feasibility data show that many of these complications may be managed remotely with patient and caregiver-directed text-messaging platforms, online portals, and frequent telephone check-ins with the clinical team. This approach can help reduce unnecessary urgent visits and hospitali…