Best evidence summary of digital health interventions for self-management in patients with coronary artery disease

Objective: To systematically identify and synthesize the best available evidence on digital health interventions supporting self-management in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The aim of this study was to provide evidence-based guidance for healthcare professionals and to inform the development of digital intervention-based self-management programs that can support patients in optimizing their self-management behaviors and practices. Methods: A comprehensive evidence summary was conducted in accordance with the methodology recommended by the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI). Systematic searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, CINAHL, the Cochrane Library, and major Chinese databases from their inception to November 2025. The methodological quality of the included studies was appraised using JBI critical appraisal tools. The certainty of evidence and strength of recommendations were evaluated using the GRADE approach. Result: A total of 5,312 records were initially identified, of which 38 studies met the inclusion criteria. These included six clinical guidelines, 13 systematic reviews, 15 randomized controlled trials, and four quasi-experimental studies. From these sources, 36 pieces of evidence were synthesized and categorized into five domains: intervention modalities, self-management support strategies, medication adherence, lifestyle management, and clinical outcomes. Conclusions: This evidence summary provides a comprehensive synthesis of digital health interventions designed to enhance self-management among patients with CAD. The findings offer a scientific basis for healthcare professionals to integrate digital health strategies into clinical practice and highlight their potential role in strengthening self-management and improving health outcomes in this population. Systematic Review Registration: https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/PROSPERO/view/CRD420251228969, Identifier: CRD420251228969.