Virtual and Hybrid Health Promotion Program during the COVID-19 Pandemic

Many adapted sports programs were canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, creating a need for alternative health promotion programs. This applied research study examined the adaptation, implementation, and evaluation of the I Can Do It (ICDI) program in a virtual/hybrid format to continue serving individuals with disabilities, during pandemic restrictions. All participants met or made progress toward physical activity and healthy eating goals during the 6-8 week program. Overweight and obese participants made improvements in at least one health measure (weight, waist circumference, or BMI) and healthy weight participants maintained healthy status during stressful pandemic conditions, indicating virtual/hybrid delivery of the ICDI program is feasible and effective.

TCT CONNECT-221 Primary PCI for STEMI During the COVID-19 Pandemic in London: A Systematic Analysis of Pathway Activation and Outcomes

Background: Coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) poses a risk for health care workers necessitating modifications to existing medical pathways. In particular, managing patients with suspected COVID-19 represents a risk to the delivery of a primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) pathway where time-dependent revascularization is key. Methods: We sought to evaluate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on an established ambulance-triggered PPCI program involving 2 high-volume heart attack centers in London, United Kingdom. A systematic analysis was performed in patients with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction undergoing PPCI comparing the COVID-19 pandemic period March 1, 2020, to April 30, 2020, with a control group from the previous year. Results: During the study period, admissions through the PPCI pathway decreased by 34%. The time from symptoms onset to first call for help (2020: 11 min vs. 2019: 12 min;p = 0.90) and from symptom onset to arrival at PPCI center (2020: 183 min vs. 2019: 178 min;p = 0.99) were comparable;however, the time from arrival at PPCI center to revascularization decreased (2020: 44 min vs. 2019: 53 min;p = 0.0004). In-hospital mortality during the study period was significantly lower (5% vs. 15%;p = 0.04). COVID-19–positive patients (n = 8) had higher rates of cardiogenic shock (25%), intensive care unit admission (50%), and inpatient mortality (38%). [Formula presented] Conclusion: Our data show that the modifications to the existing PPCI pathway were not associated with treatment delay or adverse outcome. The reduction in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction presentations raises concern that patients may not be seeking appropriate medical attention for chest pain. Importantly, we demonstrate that PPCI can be delivered safely and efficiently during the COVID-19 pandemic. Categories: OTHER: COVID-19