Clinical Service Incorporating Mobile Technology on Weight Loss in Patients With Metabolic Dysfunction–Associated Steatotic Liver Disease: A Translation From Research Trial

Abstract

Background

The prevalence and healthcare cost of metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) has increased alongside the epidemic surge in obesity and Type 2 diabetes. Weight loss through lifestyle modification remains the primary effective therapy for MASLD. Incorporation of mobile technology in lifestyle interventions has been previously found to be efficacious and cost-effective in facilitating weight loss. However, there is a paucity of studies that have successfully translated lifestyle research into clinical service for weight loss to alleviate disease burden. Our study aimed to describe the process of translating a mobile technology–enabled trial into a tertiary hospital outpatient dietetics service for patients with MASLD.

Methods

The Iowa Model of Evidence-Based Practice to Improve Quality Care was used as a framework for this paper to guide implementation at the organizational level.

Results

Regular engagement of key operational staff and the hospital management team facilitated open discussions of the challenges faced and enabled rapid implementation of strategies that contributed to the smooth piloting of the service. A service adoption rate of 81% was achieved. Preliminary outcome evaluation found that the percentage of patients achieving ≥ 5% weight loss from baseline at 6 months was comparable at 54% and 52% for the service and trial groups, respectively.

Conclusions

Evaluation of the implementation process found that a hybrid model of care (in-person consultation supplemented with app coaching) preserved interpersonal connections while maximizing the convenience and scalability of mobile app–enabled service. Although high digital acceptance and adoption rates propelled by COVID-19-supported telehealth, it is prudent to assess patient's access to technology and digital literacy and offer resources to help them benefit from telehealth services.