ReMonit Gout feasibility study
Innovation in patient care is at the center of the feasibility study in the ReMonit Gout project. The study will test the applicability of the patient app, Urika, designed to support people who are about to start uric acid-lowering treatment.
- The study has started work on including 20-30 patients. It is part of the work to research digital health tools, as support tools, says the study leader, Professor Nina Østerås.
The Urika app acts as a support tool for patients by offering personalized advice and information throughout their treatment process. The approach aims to improve patients' compliance with treatment regimens. It is a critical aspect of long-term treatment of chronic conditions, such as gout.
A carefully designed study
The participating patients will be followed closely over a period of three months, to collect data on the app's effectiveness and ease of use.
- This early phase of the research will provide valuable insight, which will shape the further development of Urika, as well as lay the foundation for the planned main study - a randomized controlled trial (RCT) with 168 patients, explains Nina.
A milestone for research methodology
- As far as we know, this is the first study at the hospital to be carried out under the new EU regulations for medical devices, says Nina.
The regulation has required a comprehensive effort to meet all necessary documentation requirements and regulatory obligations. - Despite the challenges, the initiation visit by a monitor from Research Support was successful , says Nina. She sees it as a promising sign that the preparations have been solid.
The way forward
The results of this feasibility study will be decisive for the future direction of the ReMonit Gout project. By demonstrating the effectiveness and ease of use of the Urika app, the project can potentially transform the treatment landscape for patients with gout and offer a new model for patient support in our digital age.
With a focus on innovation, patient engagement and an evidence-based approach, the ReMonit Gout project not only represents a step forward for gout treatment, but also a new way of thinking about the use of technology in patient care.
As a pioneering project in the new EU regulation, it has contributed to valuable increased expertise, which can be useful in future projects where this type of medical equipment is included. HSØ finances PhD scholarship holder Johan Stjärne, who is a medical student. The study team also consists of coordinator Silje Søhus and study nurses Heidi Lunøe and Gina Stenberg. The study has received three million from DAM for the further course.
