A novel randomized control trial in Northumbria, UK, is evaluating the feasibility of using digital interventions to support individuals with comorbid hypertension and depression and/or anxiety. The study, backed by Innovate UK, explores the potential of digital health tools to improve self-management, reduce healthcare costs, and enhance national health outcomes.
Trial Design and Implementation
Northumbria Primary Care enrolled patients in a 12-week trial where they used Holly Health’s digital coaching service at home, mirroring real-world application. The study focused on recruitment rates and patient acceptability as primary outcomes. Dr. Justine Norman, Clinical Director for Quality and Research at Northumbria Primary Care, expressed enthusiasm about the study, noting the encouraging patient response and the potential for innovative digital approaches to support combined physical and mental health conditions.
Positive Patient Feedback
Results from the trial indicated positive patient engagement and satisfaction. After 12 weeks, 64% of patients found the service useful, 69% reported benefiting from it, and 92% found it acceptable as a digital health intervention. Participants reported improvements in lifestyle habits, including changes in eating habits, reduced alcohol intake, and increased physical activity. One participant highlighted the app's value, noting its integration into their daily routine and the usefulness of its discovery resources and notifications.
Potential Impact and Future Directions
The study will also analyze changes in GP appointments and prescription rates after six months of using Holly Health. Daniela Beivide, Chief Science Officer at Holly Health, emphasized the potential of scaling the service for large populations to reduce strain on NHS services and create significant economic change. The app provides AI-powered coaching, habit reminders, education, and in-the-moment support to encourage actions for blood pressure and mood management.
The Holly Health app includes an Ecological Momentary Assessment (EMA) feature, gathering real-time user data on mood and stress levels to provide personalized coaching. This feature is part of a Future Economy 12-month project funded by Innovate UK. The research underscores the importance of integrated solutions addressing both physical and mental health, particularly given that cardiovascular conditions are the leading cause of early deaths worldwide, with over 19 million UK adults affected by hypertension.
