Beyond validation: getting wearable activity trackers into cardiovascular care—a discussion paper

Abstract

Abstract This paper addresses the challenge of integrating wearable activity trackers (WATs) into cardiovascular disease care. Despite evidence supporting the use of trackers for monitoring and promoting physical activity, implementation challenges persist in clinical settings. The paper emphasizes the lack of systematic, evidence-based implementation approaches for integrating trackers. It underscores the urgent need for stakeholder collaboration between clinicians, patients, implementation scientists, researchers, health and technology partners, and the use of proven implementation science methodologies. This is crucial for bridging the gap and ensuring effective translation of WATs into cardiovascular care, meeting the increasing demand from patients and clinicians.