Cardiac rehabilitation in south west Victoria : factors influencing attendance

<b>Background :</b> The benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are well established. Despite these benefits their utilisation remains sub-optimal, with an average of 24% of eligible cardiac patients attending outpatient CR programs across Victoria.<br /><b>Aims & rationale/Objectives :</b> The objectives of this study were to (a) identify local barriers and enablers to the uptake of hospital-based CR programs, and (b) identify preferred alternatives for the delivery of CR.<br /><b>Methods : </b>Six hospital-based CR programs within the region agreed to participate in this study. A consecutive series of patients referred to the programs were surveyed by the CR coordinators to identify the local barriers and enablers influencing CR program attendance. In addition, focus groups with CR participants and health professionals were conducted at two hospitals in order to ascertain their views on current programs, suggestions for improvements and alternative methods of CR delivery.<br /><b>Principal findings :</b> Survey data was obtained from a total of 97 patients referred to the CR programs during the study period, 27 (28%) females and 70 (72%) males. Main reasons given for CR non-attendance were related to distance to travel, cost of petrol, reliance on others for transport and lack of interest or motivation to attend. For CR attenders, main enablers included encouragement by family, medical and other health professionals, and having someone else to drive them. Suggestions for alternative methods of CR delivery included more programs in outlying communities, home and GP based programs, telephone support and a patient manual or workbook.<br /><b>Discussion :</b> The results of this study provide valuable information for designing strategies to increase utilisation of existing CR programs as well as pilot testing alternative modes of CR program delivery for cardiac patients in rural areas unable to access hospital-based CR.<br /><b>Implications :</b> These findings suggest that many of the barriers identified could be addressed by a more creative use of existing resources and the provision of CR services in primary care settings.<br /><b>Presentation type :</b> Poster <br />