Authors (including presenting author) :
Chan ST(1), Lau KC(1), Yip CT(1), Man SY(1), Yu CY(1)
Affiliation :
(1)Occupational Therapy Department, Tseung Kwan O Hospital
Introduction :
Health Qigong has demonstrated effectiveness in enhancing physical and mental well-being, establishing itself as a valuable treatment modality in occupational therapy. As digital health solutions advance, telehealth has become integral to modern healthcare delivery. A pilot hybrid health Qigong programme has been implemented at Tseung Kwan O Hospital Occupational Therapy Department utilising the HA-Go telehealth platform. This innovative approach aims to overcome traditional barriers such as space constraints and resource limitations whilst maintaining quality care delivery. The programme combines in-person screening with flexible remote sessions, as well as after-class revision video through HA-Go prescription, offering a dynamic approach to therapeutic intervention that maximises accessibility.
Objectives :
(1) To assess the feasibility of implementing a hybrid training modality
(2) To evaluate the effectiveness of a hybrid Health Qigong programme in improving patients' mental well-being
Methodology :
The study employed a quasi-experimental pilot design with pre- and post-intervention assessments. Participants were recruited from existing occupational therapy outpatients. Assessment tools included the PHQ-9 and WHO-5 for mental well-being index measurement, administered at baseline and after programme completion. Statistical analyses were performed using R Studio, utilising the Wilcoxon Signed-Rank Test to compare pre- and post-intervention outcomes. Comprehensive patient satisfaction surveys were conducted to collect feedback on programme effectiveness and delivery.
Result & Outcome :
Statistical analysis of the pilot study revealed no statistically significant changes in PHQ-9 and WHO-5 scores, considering the study's limited statistical power due to the small sample size (N=8). However, patient satisfaction metrics were highly encouraging, with 85% of participants reporting high satisfaction or satisfaction with the programme. Participants specifically noted improved Health Qigong knowledge, and increased confidence in Activities of Daily Living (ADL). The positive patient feedback and operational feasibility demonstrate strong promise for this innovative treatment approach, presenting a viable direction for future healthcare delivery. Future research should incorporate larger sample sizes and more robust methodological designs to better evaluate the long-term impact of hybrid Health Qigong programmes.
