The perceptions on community-based cardiac rehabilitation of patients undergoing hospital-based phase 3 cardiac rehabilitation

Abstract

Background:-Despite the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), it is not accessed by all eligible. Barriers could potentially be overcome through alternative forms of rehabilitation including community-based CR (CBCR). Locally, phase 3 CR is offered as an outpatient service and to the author’s knowledge no local study has studied the CR patients’ perceptions about CBCR provision. Method:-A self-designed questionnaire was distributed to patients undergoing phase 3 CR at Mater Dei hospital, collecting patient demographics and perceptions about CBCR. The quantitative parts were analysed using SPSS while the qualitative part was analysed thematically. Results:-Overall, the participants prefer hospital-based CR (HBCR) over CBCR. This is evident in their perception about physical activity levels, comfort to exercise, perceived future attendance, COVID-19 risk and the preference of other participants in HBCR and CBCR. CBCR is perceived as being easier to attend than HBCR, with the issue of logistics mentioned to support this. CBCR and HBCR were perceived as being equally safe. However, personal confidence, and a sense of security were mentioned favouring HBCR. Females perceive CBCR more positively overall. Conclusion:-This study gives an overview of the way CR patients perceive CBCR and suggests its provision as a choice. A local pilot project of CBCR may be feasible in parallel to HBCR. If CBCR were to be introduced, discipline, high quality equipment, small groups and professional and supportive staff are important.