European Journal of Biomedical and Pharmaceutical Sciences

THE ROLE OF TELEHEALTH INTERVENTIONS IN MYOCARDIAL INFARCTIONS DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

Adetola Mowo-wale, Damola John Akinmoladun*, Prince Agbakahi, Jovita Oge Echere, Godswill Nwadiei, Nkechi Enemuo, Chidera Emmanuel Okezie, Ngozika Grace Obiefuna, Shwetha Gopal, Chidinma Vivian Ikekpeazu, Chiamaka Vivien Uzochukwu, Kidus Fekade Weldemicheal, Milkias Tsigabu Araya, Matusala Fesseha Abadi and Genet Gebremedhin Gebremariyam

ABSTRACT

Background: The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly affected healthcare delivery worldwide, necessitating innovative solutions such as telehealth to continue providing care. This review aims to explore the role of telehealth interventions in the management of myocardial infarctions (MIs) during the pandemic. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) Statement 2020 guidelines. Literature from PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science was searched for studies published after the year 2020, focusing on telehealth interventions in managing MIs during the COVID-19 pandemic. Studies were screened based on relevance, and data was extracted and synthesized qualitatively. Results: The review included six studies, mainly from China and the USA, with a total of over 9,700 patients. The results demonstrated the utilization of telemedicine apps and platforms during the pandemic to manage acute MI patients. Telehealth interventions were found to reduce systemic delays and improve follow-up rates. A study from the USA noted improved 7-day follow-up rates and decreased 30-day readmission rates. However, challenges such as digital divide and lack of digital literacy were highlighted, highlighting the need for more accessible and user-friendly telehealth solutions. Conclusion: Telehealth interventions show promise in improving the management of MI patients during the COVID-19 pandemic. They can potentially contribute to reducing systemic delays, enhancing follow-up rates, and possibly improving clinical outcomes. However, it is critical to address the associated challenges to ensure equitable access and benefits. More rigorous and diverse research is required to deepen our understanding of the relationship between telehealth and MI outcomes.

Keywords: COVID-19, Myocardial Infarctions, Telehealth, Telemedicine, Systemic Delays, Follow-Up Rates, Digital Divide.