The MoniCard-system was developed as an electronic interface between patients and health professionals. It offers the possibility to integrate the patient directly in an IT-supported managed care system and should lead to more efficient medical service. The system is able to compute Pulse Transit Time (PTT) and Heart Rate Variability (HRV), which is one of the most promising parameters for an estimation of the patient’s health status at a distance.

Today, the system will be evaluated with CHF-patients (NYHA Class III-IV) in Luxembourg and two university hospitals in Germany and France. By using the method of a health economic evaluation, we will estimate effects on quality of life and health care costs. Events such as death, readmissions and hospitals days will be recorded. A qualified nurse and a cardiologist will review patient data on a daily basis. If necessary, patient treatment will be adapted during outpatient’s appointments.