Technology-delivered motivational interviewing to improve health outcomes in patients with chronic conditions: a systematic review of the literature

Provide an overview of remote motivational interviewing (MI) interventions for chronically ill patients, and understand their degree of effectiveness on different health outcomes.

A systematic review with meta-analysis was conducted using the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, PsychInfo, and Web of Science. Eligibility criteria included studies that administered remote MI alone or in combination with other remote approaches. A narrative synthesis and two meta-analyses were performed. Fifteen studies met the inclusion criteria. MI administration almost exclusively occurred by telephone and individual sessions. Eight studies reported treatment fidelity aspects, and four declared adopting a theoretical framework. Most targeted outcomes were therapeutic adherence, physical activity, depression, quality of life, and mortality. Risk of bias varied markedly, with the largest source resulting from selection process and intervention performance. The two meta-analyses indicated a significant effect of MI on depression [standardized mean difference = –0.20, 95% confidence interval (CI): –0.34, –0.05, Z = 2.73, P = 0.006, I² = 0%], and no effect of MI on glycosylated haemoglobin (mean difference = –0.02, 95% CI: –0.48, 0.45, P = 0.94, I² = 84%).

Remote MI can be a promising approach for improving depression in chronic disease patients. However, studies are inconclusive due to risks of bias, heterogeneity, and lack of reporting of interventionist’s training, treatment fidelity, and theoretical frameworks’ use. More studies with solid designs are needed to inform clinical decision-making and research.

PROSPERO: CRD42021241516.