POST-PCI CARE IN THE COVID-19 ERA – DELIVERY CHALLENGES AND HEALTH OUTCOMES:

Abstract

Therapeutic Area: Rehabilitation Background: In this study, we aim to investigate the impact of COVID-19 on the delivery of timely healthcare services for patients who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI), the primary treatment for myocardial infarction. With COVID-19 putting a significant strain on the healthcare system, access to necessary medical care has been compromised, potentially leading to adverse outcomes such as repeated revascularization and death. By analyzing these effects, we hope to gain valuable insights into how the pandemic has affected patient outcomes and identify potential strategies to mitigate these impacts. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cohort study on patients who received PCI treatment and followed up at UC Davis Hospital between April and August in 2019 and 2020. We employed several statistical tests, including Wilcoxon rank sum, Fisher's exact test, Kaplan-Meier curves, and cox proportional hazards models. Results: Compared to pre-COVID-19 times, there is a significantly longer wait time for enrollment in Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (CRP), and significantly lower enrollment in CRP during COVID-19. Patients receiving PCI during COVID have increased revascularization and death rates, but it was not statistically significant. Conclusions: Our study highlights the significant risk of adverse events for patients undergoing PCI post-treatment and the challenges of limited access to critical cardiac rehabilitation services during this period. The findings have led to a $80K grant to establish a digital monitoring program for post-PCI patients, aimed at reducing the rates of repeated revascularization and death. The program utilizes timely monitoring of blood pressure and physical activity, along with a text messaging communication system, to bridge the gap in accessing in-person cardiac rehabilitation services and inform the development of a virtual cardiac rehabilitation program.