Virtual and in-person cardiac rehabilitation

Clinical, Psychological, Physiological, and Technical Parameters and Their Relationship With Digital Tool Use During Cardiac Rehabilitation: Comparison and Correlation Study

Background

Home and telehealth-based interventions are increasingly used in cardiac rehabilitation, a multidisciplinary model of health care. Digital tools such as wearables or digital training diaries are expected to support patients to adhere to recommended lifestyle changes, including physical exercise programs. As previously published, the EPICURE study (effect of digital tools in outpatient cardiac rehabilitation including home training) analyzed the effects of digital tools, that is, a digital training diary, adherence monitoring, and wearables, on exercise capacity during outpatient cardiac rehabilitation phase III (OUT-III) which includes an approximately 12-week home-training phase. The study encompassed 149 Austrian patients, of which 50 used digital tools.

Objective

The present paper takes a deeper look into the EPICURE data to better understand the relation between the use of digital tools and various psychological, clinical, and physiological parameters, and the relation between these parameters and the improvement of exercise capacity during cardiac rehabilitation.

Methods

For this work, we analyzed questionnaires concerning the patients' cardiac rehabilitation. On all these parameters we performed 2 analyzes: (1) Comparison of the 2 groups with and without digital tools and (2) correlation with the change in the maximum workload as achieved during the exercise stress test. If data pre- and post OUT-III were available, the change in the respective parameter during OUT-III was determined and group analysis and correlation were applied on data pre OUT-III, data post OUT-III, and the change during OUT-III.

Results

We found significant improvements in quality of life in both groups, with no discernible differences between patients with or without digital tools (P=.53). Patients with digital tools perceived significantly higher competence during cardiac rehabilitation (P=.05), and they anticipated higher cardiac risks if nonadherent to physical activity (P=.03). Although, the overall subjectively reported adherence was not significantly different in the 2 groups (P=.50), specific items differed. Patients with digital tools were significantly more likely to do their exercises even when they were tired (P=.01) and less likely to forget their exercises (P=.01). Concerning reasons for (non-) adherence, patients with digital tools reported significantly more often to do their exercises because they enjoyed them (P=.01), whereas they were significantly less likely to stop exercising when muscular pain was worse (P=.01) and to continue doing their exercises when muscular pain improved (P=.02). Finally, patients who reported a high level of concrete planning achieved significantly higher improvements in exercise capacity (r=0.14, P=.04).

Conclusions

This comprehensive analysis provides valuable insights into the multifaceted impact of digital tools on outpatient cardiac rehabilitation including home training, shedding light on the importance of digital tools for increased competence and a higher risk perception during cardiac rehabilitation. In addition, the impact of digital tools on adherence and their influence on patient outcomes were assessed in the evolving landscape of digital health interventions.

Cardiovascular Telerehabilitation: An Alternative for Greater Availability of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Rehabilitation in Brazil

Central Illustration: Cardiac Telerehabilitation - An alternative for patients with difficulty attending rehabilitation centers.

Effectiveness of virtual reality in cardiac rehabilitation patients for exercise capacity and negative emotions: A systematic review and meta-analysis

BACKGROUND

The significance of virtual reality (VR) technology as an alternative or complementary modality to traditional cardiac rehabilitation is of increasing interest. Numerous studies have examined the effects of virtual reality technology in cardiac rehabilitation patients, but the results have been inconsistent.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic search of the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, PubMed, Embase, Scopus, ProQuest, OVID, CINAHL, SinoMed, CNKI, WanFang, VIP Database, and ReadShow databases following the Program for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The search included studies published up until June 30, 2024. The Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool was used to examine the methodological quality of the included randomized controlled studies. When feasible, a meta-analysis was performed to calculate the pooled effects using Review Manager (version 5.3). Otherwise, narrative summaries were performed.

RESULTS

A total of 11 studies with 1093 patients were included. The results of systematic review and meta-analysis showed that virtual reality technology improved patients' exercise capacity (mean difference: 53.26, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 45.14-61.37; P < .00001); anxiety (standardized mean difference [SMD]: -0.39, 95% CI: -0.69, -0.08, P = .01); depression (SMD: -0.48, 95% CI: -0.79, -0.17; P = .003); stress (SMD: -0.72, 95% CI: -1.03, -0.40; P < .00001); emotional tension (SMD: -0.81, 95% CI: -1.15, -0.47; P < .00001); emotional tension (SMD: -0.64, 95% CI: -0.98, -0.30; P = .0002), and intrapsychic stress (SMD: -0.56, 95% CI: -0.90, -0.23; P = .0009).

CONCLUSION

Virtual reality-based interventions can be effective in improving patients' exercise capacity and negative emotions. However, further research is needed to determine the efficacy of VR for other clinical outcomes.

Understanding adaptive tasks in cardiac rehabilitation among patients with acute myocardial infarction: a qualitative study

BACKGROUND

While Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) programs have shown effectiveness in improving cardiac outcomes, there is limited understanding of how patients perceive and adapt to these interventions. Furthermore, alternative modes of delivering CR that have received positive evaluations from participants remain underexplored, yet they have the potential to enhance CR uptake.

OBJECTIVES

To explore the patient experience in CR programmes following Acute Myocardial Infarction (AMI) and describe their adaptive processing.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This qualitative study was conducted at a nationally certified centre in China between July 2021 and September 2022, encompassing three stages: in-hospital, centre-based, and home-based CR programs. Purposive sampling was used to select eligible AMI patients for in-depth semi-structured interviews. The interview outline and analytical framework were aligned with the key concepts derived from the middle-range theory of adaptation to chronic illness and the normalization process theory. The findings were reported following the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research checklist.

RESULTS

Forty AMI patients were recruited. Four main themes describing the process of AMI patients normalizing CR intervention were identified, including (1) experiencing CR service driving by role's responsibilities, (2) engaging in collaborative relationship based on interpersonal trust, (3) exploring a personalized rehabilitation plan by complex integration, and (4) expecting a promised outcome to shape decision-making.

CONCLUSION

Integrated care interventions for AMI patients could benefit from a collaborative co-designed approach to ensure that CR interventions are normalized and fit into patients' daily lives. Organizational-level CR services should align with the rehabilitation needs and expectations of patients.

State of the art of mobile health technologies use in clinical arrhythmia care

The rapid growth in consumer-facing mobile and sensor technologies has created tremendous opportunities for patient-driven personalized health management. The diagnosis and management of cardiac arrhythmias are particularly well suited to benefit from these easily accessible consumer health technologies. In particular, smartphone-based and wrist-worn wearable electrocardiogram (ECG) and photoplethysmography (PPG) technology can facilitate relatively inexpensive, long-term rhythm monitoring. Here we review the practical utility of the currently available and emerging mobile health technologies relevant to cardiac arrhythmia care. We discuss the applications of these tools, which vary with respect to diagnostic performance, target populations, and indications. We also highlight that requirements for successful integration into clinical practice require adaptations to regulatory approval, data management, electronic medical record integration, quality oversight, and efforts to minimize the additional burden to health care professionals.

Facility-Based and Virtual Cardiac Rehabilitation in Young Patients with Heart Disease During the COVID-19 Era

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an important tool for improving fitness and quality of life in those with heart disease (HD). Few pediatric centers use CR to care for these patients, and virtual CR is rarely used. In addition, it is unclear how the COVID-19 era has changed CR outcomes. This study assessed fitness improvements in young HD patients participating in both facility-based and virtual CR during the COVID-19 pandemic. This retrospective single-center cohort study included new patients who completed CR from March 2020 through July 2022. CR outcomes included physical, performance, and psychosocial measures. Comparison between serial testing was performed with a paired t test with P < 0.05 was considered significant. Data are reported as mean ± standard deviation. There were 47 patients (19 ± 7.3 years old; 49% male) who completed CR. Improvements were seen in peak oxygen consumption (VO2, 62.3 ± 16.1 v 71 ± 18.2% of predicted, p = 0.0007), 6-min walk (6 MW) distance (401 ± 163.8 v 480.7 ± 119.2 m, p =  < 0.0001), sit to stand (16.2 ± 4.9 v 22.1 ± 6.6 repetitions; p =  < 0.0001), Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) (5.9 ± 4.3 v 4.4 ± 4.2; p = 0.002), and Physical Component Score (39.9 ± 10.1 v 44.9 ± 8.8; p = 0.002). Facility-based CR enrollees were less likely to complete CR than virtual patients (60%, 33/55 v 80%, 12/15; p = 0.005). Increases in peak VO2 (60 ± 15.3 v 70.2 ± 17.8% of predicted; p = 0.002) were seen among those that completed facility-based CR; this was not observed in the virtual group. Both groups demonstrated improvement in 6 MW distance, sit-to-stand repetitions, and sit-and-reach distance. Completion of a CR program resulted in fitness improvements during the COVID-19 era regardless of location, although peak VO2 improved more for the in-person group.

Completeness of intervention reporting in randomised trials of technology-enabled remote or hybrid exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review using the TIDieR framework

BACKGROUND

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation improves clinical outcomes and quality of life. Technology-enabled delivery of remote cardiac rehabilitation is as effective in improving health outcomes as in-person delivery and has the potential to transform clinical service delivery. However, for the successful translation of research to clinical practice, interventions must be adequately reported in the literature.

METHODS

Systematic review of MedLine, CINAHL, PubMed and SPORT Discus databases applying PRISMA guidance. Randomised controlled trials of remote or hybrid technology-enabled exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation interventions were included. Completeness of reporting was evaluated against the TIDieR checklist.

RESULTS

The search strategy returned 162 articles which, following screening, resulted in 12 randomised trials being included containing data for 1588 participants. No trial fully reported their rehabilitation intervention as per the 12-item TIDieR checklist, with a median score of eight out of 12 categories. Notably, intervention detail, dosage and modification were comparatively poorly reported.

CONCLUSION

Technology-enabled remotely delivered cardiac rehabilitation may be effective at improving cardiovascular fitness; however, the quality of reporting of these interventions in randomised trials is insufficient for replication which has material implications for translation into clinical practice.

Effects of an e-Media-Supported, Exercise-Based Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation in Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting Surgery Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Background and objective Coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery patients undergo cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs postoperatively to improve their course of recovery. The effectiveness of traditional CR programs is hampered by time constraints, financial burdens, transportation issues, and geographic restrictions. The coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and technological advances have led to the emergence of home-based CR programs using e-media, thereby improving accessibility. This study aimed to analyze the effects of e-media-supported, exercise-based phase II CR in post-CABG patients. Methods A single assessor-blinded randomized controlled trial (RCT) was conducted at a tertiary care hospital to analyze the effectiveness of a validated e-media-supported, exercise-based phase II cardiac rehabilitation in CABG Patients. A total of 40 subjects were included in the study based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. The subjects were then randomly assigned to two groups: the experimental group received e-media-supported exercise and the control group received routine care. The duration of the intervention was three months. The outcome measures used were functional capacity, left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), quality of life, and physical activity (PA). Statistical analysis was conducted using SPSS Statistics v. 22.0 (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY). Results After three months of intervention, the mean distance covered during the six-minute walk test (6MWT) showed a significant increase in both the control and experimental groups. The experimental group demonstrated a statistically significant improvement compared to the control group (p<0.001). Furthermore, the experimental group showed significant improvements in the rate of perceived exertion (RPE), LVEF, and World Health Organization Quality of Life Brief Version (WHOQOL-BREF) and Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) scores compared to the control group (all p<0.001). Conclusions Based on our findings, the e-media-supported, exercise-based phase II cardiac rehabilitation is feasible and safe, and significantly improved functional capacity and enhanced quality of life. The PA level of the experimental group was higher than controls at the 12-week follow-up after CABG.

Use Cases Requiring Privacy-Preserving Record Linkage in Paediatric Oncology

Large datasets in paediatric oncology are inherently rare. Therefore, it is paramount to fully exploit all available data, which are distributed over several resources, including biomaterials, images, clinical trials, and registries. With privacy-preserving record linkage (PPRL), personalised or pseudonymised datasets can be merged, without disclosing the patients' identities. Although PPRL is implemented in various settings, use case descriptions are currently fragmented and incomplete. The present paper provides a comprehensive overview of current and future use cases for PPRL in paediatric oncology. We analysed the literature, projects, and trial protocols, identified use cases along a hypothetical patient journey, and discussed use cases with paediatric oncology experts. To structure PPRL use cases, we defined six key dimensions: distributed personalised records, pseudonymisation, distributed pseudonymised records, record linkage, linked data, and data analysis. Selected use cases were described (a) per dimension and (b) on a multi-dimensional level. While focusing on paediatric oncology, most aspects are also applicable to other (particularly rare) diseases. We conclude that PPRL is a key concept in paediatric oncology. Therefore, PPRL strategies should already be considered when starting research projects, to avoid distributed data silos, to maximise the knowledge derived from collected data, and, ultimately, to improve outcomes for children with cancer.

Experiences of integrating and sustaining physical activity in life with multiple sclerosis, Alzheimer's disease, and ischaemic heart disease: a scoping review

PURPOSE

The effects of physical activity on health are well-established for chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS), Alzheimer's disease (AD), and ischaemic heart disease (IHD). However, sustaining physical activity in everyday life is difficult. Lifeworld knowledge can help qualify interventions aimed at resolving this public health issue, but there is a gap in regard to synthesized research on peoples' experiences with integrating and sustaining physical activity. Hence, the purpose of this review is to explore and present the available evidence on experiences with integrating and sustaining physical activity in a lived life with MS, AD, and IHD.

METHODS

We conducted a scoping review with qualitative analysis and narrative syntheses in accordance with PRISMA-ScR. Based on SPIDER we ran a systematic search in Cinahl, Embase, Medline, and PsychInfo for primary qualitative research papers published until December 2022.

RESULTS

43 papers were included. A thematic content analysis found that individuals who have MS, AD or IHD find integrating and sustaining physical activity in everyday life meaningful on several levels: Physical activity can facilitate meaningful movement with outcomes of physical, psychosocial, and existential importance.

CONCLUSION

The research literature presents a meaning to physical activity that extends the idea of physical fitness to one of existential movement and personal growth. In addition, our review finds that people are more likely to integrate and sustain physical activity if they feel acknowledged, supported and believe that physical activity has a meaningful purpose reflecting their sense of self. Taking a more person-centred approach in rehabilitative care might help qualify the content of physical activity in terms of integration into everyday life, but more research is needed on how to implement a person-centred approach in practice.

Feasibility study of rehabilitation for cardiac patients aided by an artificial intelligence web-based programme: a randomised controlled trial (RECAP trial)-a study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) delivered by rehabilitation specialists in a healthcare setting is effective in improving functional capacity and reducing readmission rates after cardiac surgery. It is also associated with a reduction in cardiac mortality and recurrent myocardial infarction. This trial assesses the feasibility of a home-based CR programme delivered using a mobile application (app).

METHODS

The Rehabilitation through Exercise prescription for Cardiac patients using an Artificial intelligence web-based Programme (RECAP) randomised controlled feasibility trial is a single-centre prospective study, in which patients will be allocated on a 1:1 ratio to a home-based CR programme delivered using a mobile app with accelerometers or standard hospital-based rehabilitation classes. The home-based CR programme will employ artificial intelligence to prescribe exercise goals to the participants on a weekly basis. The trial will recruit 70 patients in total. The primary objectives are to evaluate participant recruitment and dropout rates, assess the feasibility of randomisation, determine acceptability to participants and staff, assess the rates of potential outcome measures and determine hospital resource allocation to inform the design of a larger randomised controlled trial for clinical efficacy and health economic evaluation. Secondary objectives include evaluation of health-related quality of life and 6 minute walk distance.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

RECAP trial received a favourable outcome from the Berkshire research ethics committee in September 2022 (IRAS 315483).Trial results will be made available through publication in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant scientific meetings.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ISRCTN97352737.

Latest updates on structure and recommendations of cardiac rehabilitation programs in chronic heart failure

Chronic heart failure (HF) is a clinical syndrome with high morbidity and mortality worldwide. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a medically supervised program designed to maintain or improve cardiovascular health of people living with HF, recommended by both American and European guidelines. A CR program consists of a multispecialty group including physicians, nurses, physiotherapists, trainers, nutritionists, and psychologists with the common purpose of improving functional capacity and quality of life of chronic HF patients. Physical activity, lifestyle, and psychological support are core components of a successful CR program. CR has been shown to be beneficial in all ejection fraction categories in HF and most patients, who are stable under medication, are capable of participating. An individualized exercise prescription should be developed on the basis of a baseline evaluation in all patients. The main modalities of exercise training are aerobic exercise and muscle strength training of different intensity and frequency. It is important to set the appropriate clinical outcomes from the beginning, in order to assess the effectiveness of a CR program. There are still significant limitations that prevent patients from participating in these programs and need to be solved. A significant limitation is the generally low quality of research in CR and the presence of negative trials, such as the rehabilitation after myocardial infarction trial, where comprehensive rehabilitation following myocardial infraction had no important effect on mortality, morbidity, risk factors, or health-related quality of life or activity. In the present editorial, we present all the updated knowledge and recommendations in CR programs.

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation for adults with heart failure

BACKGROUND

People with heart failure experience substantial disease burden that includes low exercise tolerance, poor health-related quality of life (HRQoL), increased risk of mortality and hospital admission, and high healthcare costs. The previous 2018 Cochrane review reported that exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (ExCR) compared to no exercise control shows improvement in HRQoL and hospital admission amongst people with heart failure, as well as possible reduction in mortality over the longer term, and that these reductions appear to be consistent across patient and programme characteristics. Limitations noted by the authors of this previous Cochrane review include the following: (1) most trials were undertaken in patients with heart failure with reduced (< 45%) ejection fraction (HFrEF), and women, older people, and those with heart failure with preserved (≥ 45%) ejection fraction (HFpEF) were under-represented; and (2) most trials were undertaken in a hospital or centre-based setting.

OBJECTIVES

To assess the effects of ExCR on mortality, hospital admission, and health-related quality of life of adults with heart failure.

SEARCH METHODS

We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO and Web of Science without language restriction on 13 December 2021. We also checked the bibliographies of included studies, identified relevant systematic reviews, and two clinical trials registers.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) that compared ExCR interventions (either exercise only or exercise as part of a comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation) with a follow-up of six months or longer versus a no-exercise control (e.g. usual medical care). The study population comprised adults (≥ 18 years) with heart failure - either HFrEF or HFpEF.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

We used standard Cochrane methods. Our primary outcomes were all-cause mortality, mortality due to heart failure, all-cause hospital admissions, heart failure-related hospital admissions, and HRQoL. Secondary outcomes were costs and cost-effectiveness. We used GRADE to assess the certainty of the evidence.

MAIN RESULTS

We included 60 trials (8728 participants) with a median of six months' follow-up. For this latest update, we identified 16 new trials (2945 new participants), in addition to the previously identified 44 trials (5783 existing participants). Although the existing evidence base predominantly includes patients with HFrEF, with New York Heart Association (NYHA) classes II and III receiving centre-based ExCR programmes, a growing body of trials includes patients with HFpEF with ExCR undertaken in a home-based setting. All included trials employed a usual care comparator with a formal no-exercise intervention as well as a wide range of active comparators, such as education, psychological intervention, or medical management. The overall risk of bias in the included trials was low or unclear, and we mostly downgraded the certainty of evidence of outcomes upon GRADE assessment. There was no evidence of a difference in the short term (up to 12 months' follow-up) in the pooled risk of all-cause mortality when comparing ExCR versus usual care (risk ratio (RR) 0.93, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.71 to 1.21; absolute effects 5.0% versus 5.8%; 34 trials, 36 comparisons, 3941 participants; low-certainty evidence). Only a few trials reported information on whether participants died due to heart failure. Participation in ExCR versus usual care likely reduced the risk of all-cause hospital admissions (RR 0.69, 95% CI 0.56 to 0.86; absolute effects 15.9% versus 23.8%; 23 trials, 24 comparisons, 2283 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and heart failure-related hospital admissions (RR 0.82, 95% CI 0.49 to 1.35; absolute effects 5.6% versus 6.4%; 10 trials; 10 comparisons, 911 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) in the short term. Participation in ExCR likely improved short-term HRQoL as measured by the Minnesota Living with Heart Failure (MLWHF) questionnaire (lower scores indicate better HRQoL and a difference of 5 points or more indicates clinical importance; mean difference (MD) -7.39 points, 95% CI -10.30 to -4.77; 21 trials, 22 comparisons, 2699 participants; moderate-certainty evidence). When pooling HRQoL data measured by any questionnaire/scale, we found that ExCR may improve HRQoL in the short term, but the evidence is very uncertain (33 trials, 37 comparisons, 4769 participants; standardised mean difference (SMD) -0.52, 95% CI -0.70 to -0.34; very-low certainty evidence). ExCR effects appeared to be consistent across different models of ExCR delivery: centre- versus home-based, exercise dose, exercise only versus comprehensive programmes, and aerobic training alone versus aerobic plus resistance programmes.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This updated Cochrane review provides additional randomised evidence (16 trials) to support the conclusions of the previous 2018 version of the review. Compared to no exercise control, whilst there was no evidence of a difference in all-cause mortality in people with heart failure, ExCR participation likely reduces the risk of all-cause hospital admissions and heart failure-related hospital admissions, and may result in important improvements in HRQoL. Importantly, this updated review provides additional evidence supporting the use of alternative modes of ExCR delivery, including home-based and digitally-supported programmes. Future ExCR trials need to focus on the recruitment of traditionally less represented heart failure patient groups including older patients, women, and those with HFpEF.

Effects of different rehabilitation modality on cardiopulmonary function in patients with acute coronary syndrome after revascularization

Objective

To investigate the effects of different rehabilitation modalities on cardiopulmonary function in patients with acute coronary syndrome after revascularization.

Methods

Two randomized controlled trials were conducted. All patients were stable for more than 48 h and less than 1 week after revascularization for acute coronary syndrome and were randomly assigned to Group A (home-based rehabilitation group) or Group B (center guided home-based rehabilitation group). The cardiopulmonary exercise test was mainly performed before and 3 months after cardiac rehabilitation (at the end of intervention). The primary endpoints of the study were peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), and the secondary endpoints were maximum metabolic equivalents (METs), anaerobic threshold exercise load (Load AT), maximal workload (Load max), and anaerobic threshold oxygen uptake (VO2 AT).

Results

A total of 106 patients were included in the study, with 47 patients in Group A (with 6 losses) and 50 patients in Group B (with 3 losses). There were no significant difference between the two groups in terms of age, gender, body mass index (BMI), left ventricular ejection fraction(LVEF), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol(LDL-C),cardiovascular risk factors. In Group A, no significant differences in CPET indices were observed before and after the intervention. In Group B, values of maximum metabolic equivalents (METs), peak heart rate (PHR), anaerobic threshold exercise load (Load AT), maximal workload (Load max), maximum ventilation per minute (VE max), peak oxygen uptake (VO2peak), anaerobic threshold oxygen uptake (VO2 AT) and maximum oxygen pulse (VO2/HRmax) were higher than those before the intervention (P < 0.05). In addition, METs (max), Load AT, Load max, VO2 AT, and VO2peak in Group B were higher than those in group A (P < 0.05). The change rates of VO2peak, METs(max), PHR, Load max, VO2 AT, VE max, VO2/HR(max) in the two groups were significantly different before and after intervention (P <  0.05).

Conclusion

Cardiac exercise rehabilitation is helpful for improving patients' cardiopulmonary endurance and quality of life. Moreover, rehabilitation modalities with regular hospital guidance can improve cardiopulmonary function in a shorter period,which seems to be more effective than a complete home-based rehabilitation model.

Clinical Trial Registration

http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier (ChiCTR2400081034).

The effect of personalized mobile health (mHealth) in cardiac rehabilitation for discharged elderly patients after acute myocardial infarction on their inner strength and resilience

INTRODUCTION

Given the importance of promoting self-care and quality of life for discharged elderly patients after acute Myocardial Infarction(MI), It is necessitated we conduct interventions to promote these items. This study was conducted to determine the effect of mHealth-Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on the inner Strength and resilience of elderly patients with MI after discharge from the hospital.

METHODS

The present study was a randomized controlled trial that was conducted on 56 Elderly patients with myocardial infarction were discharged from the heart departments. In the intervention group after the patient's discharge, the patients were contacted twice a week for one month and the necessary training and support were given online. To gather data, the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), the demographic and clinical characteristics questionnaire, the inner strength scale (ISS), and the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC) were completed pre- and post-intervention. The data analysis was done by SPSS16.

RESULTS

This study showed the mean resilience and inner strength scores before and after the intervention in the control group had no statistically significant difference(P˃0.05). There was a significant increase in the mean resilience and inner strength scores in the intervention group after the intervention (P ≤ 0.001).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study showed that mHealth as a kind of telenursing nursing has a significant effect on both variables of inner strength and resilience of post-discharge elderly patients after acute myocardial infarction. This means that using mHealth for these patients could increase the inner strength and resilience of the elderly discharged after myocardial infarction. Therefore, through using this method, elderly patients' self-care ability and quality of life could be increased.

Can virtual reality have effects on cardiac rehabilitation? An overview of systematic reviews

OBJECTIVE

This paper aims to provide a review of the use of virtual reality in cardiac rehabilitation.

BACKGROUND

Can virtual reality technology improve outcomes in patients with cardiovascular disease? The question is still open.

DESIGN

Systematic review and meta-analyses.

METHODS

A literature search was conducted in the Embase, the Cochrane Library, PubMed, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure Database, Wanfang Database, and China Biological Medicine Database. Databases were searched to July 2023. The inclusion criteria were as follows: the nature of the studies was set as a systematic review; the research participants were patients with cardiovascular diseases undergoing cardiac rehabilitation; the research content was a comparison of virtual reality effects between other care approaches. A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews was employed to evaluate the quality of included studies and judge the overall certainty of evidence by using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation methodology. When there were differences between the outcomes, we used the RevMan 5.3 to recalculate.

RESULTS

A total of 7 reviews were included in our synthesis, including 3 low-quality articles and 4 very low-quality articles. Virtual reality was effective in improving patients' depression symptoms, anxiety, stress, and improving athletic ability, but it remains unknown whether virtual reality is effective for other outcomes or not.

CONCLUSIONS

Virtual reality can effectively improve the mental health of patients with cardiovascular disease. However, its role in improving other health indicators such as adherence, satisfaction, and quality of life has not been shown.

"Comfort of Sitting at Home While Getting Information I Needed": Experiences of Cardiac Patients Attending Virtual Cardiac Rehabilitation

Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, several health care services, including cardiac rehabilitation (CR), had to transition to virtual delivery, for which formal evaluations are lacking. In this pilot study, we investigated the implementation of a virtual CR program by surveying 30 patients attending virtual CR. Virtual CR was well received, although patients provided recommendations to improve delivery such as offering individual sessions and changing how education materials were delivered. Virtual delivery of CR likely has a role in health care, either independently or as part of a hybrid model; however, further evaluation is required.

Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Among Patients Unwilling to Participate in Hospital-Based Programs

PURPOSE

Asynchronous home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) is a viable alternative to center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR). However, to achieve significant functional improvement, a high level of adherence and activity must be achieved. The effectiveness of HBCR among patients who actively avoid CBCR has not been effectively investigated. This study aimed to investigate the effectiveness of the HBCR program among patients unwilling to participate in CBCR.

METHODS

A randomized prospective study enrolled 45 participants to a 6-mo HBCR program and the remaining 24 were allocated to regular care. Both groups were digitally monitored for physical activity (PA) and self-reported outcomes. Change in peak oxygen uptake (VO 2peak ), the primary study outcome, was measured by the cardiopulmonary exercise test, immediately before program start and 4 mo thereafter.

RESULTS

The study included 69 patients, 81% men, aged 55.9 ±12 yr, enrolled in a 6-mo HBCR program to follow a myocardial infarction (25.4%) or coronary interventions (41.3%), heart failure hospitalization (29%), or heart transplantation (10%). Weekly aerobic exercise totaled a median of 193.2 (110.2-251.5) min (129% of set exercise goal), of which 112 (70-150) min was in the heart rate zone recommended by the exercise physiologist.After 4 mo, VO 2peak improved by 10.2% in the intervention group versus -2.7% in the control group (+2.46 ± 2.67 vs -0.72 ± 3.02 mL/kg/min; P < .001).

CONCLUSION

The monthly PA of patients in the HBCR versus conventional CBCR group were well within guideline recommendations, showing a significant improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness. Risk level, age, and lack of motivation at the beginning of the program did not prevent achieving goals and maintaining adherence.

Effectiveness of Telehealth Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs on Health Outcomes of Patients With Coronary Heart Diseases: An Umbrella Review

PURPOSE

The aim of this study was to conduct an umbrella review summarizing the evidence from existing systematic reviews of telehealth cardiac rehabilitation (CR) on health outcomes of patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).

REVIEW METHODS

An umbrella review of systematic reviews was undertaken in accordance with the PRISMA and JBI guidelines. A systematic search was conducted in Medline, APA PsycINFO, Embase, CINAHL, Web of Science, Cochrane database of systematic reviews, JBI evidence synthesis, Epistemonikos, and PROSPERO, searching for systematic reviews published from 1990 to current and was limited to the language source of English and Chinese. Outcomes of interest were health behaviors and modifiable CHD risk factors, psychosocial outcomes, and other secondary outcomes. Study quality was appraised using the JBI checklist for systematic reviews. A narrative analysis was conducted, and meta-analysis results were synthesized.

SUMMARY

From 1301 identified reviews, 13 systematic reviews (10 meta-analyses) comprised 132 primary studies conducted in 28 countries. All the included reviews have high quality, with scores ranging 73-100%. Findings to the health outcomes remained inconclusive, except solid evidence was found in the significant improvement in physical activity (PA) levels and behaviors from telehealth interventions, exercise capacity from mobile health (m-health) only and web-based only interventions, and medication adherence from m-health interventions. Telehealth CR programs, work adjunct or in addition to traditional CR and standard care, are effective in improving health behaviors and modifiable CHD risk factors, particularly in PA. In addition, it does not increase the incidence in terms of mortality, adverse events, hospital readmission, and revascularization.

Effectiveness of a virtual vs. in-person group-based education curriculum to increase disease-related knowledge and change health behaviour among cardiac rehabilitation participants

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effectiveness of a virtual 12-week group-based education curriculum and to compare results with a retrospective cohort that received the same education in-person for 24 weeks.

METHODS

Participants completed online surveys (pre- and post-intervention) assessing disease-related knowledge, adherence to the Mediterranean diet, exercise self-efficacy, and satisfaction. The number of steps taken per day was recorded using a wearable device. Paired t tests and repeated measures ANOVA were used. A Bonferroni correction was applied(p < 0.01).

RESULTS

80 CR participants receiving virtual education completed both assessments. Following virtual education, participants significantly increased knowledge(p < 0.001), adherence to the Mediterranean diet(p < 0.001) and number of daily steps(p = 0.01). These results were similarly observed in the in-person education group(n = 80), with no significant differences between groups. Virtual education participants decreased their self-efficacy post-intervention(p < 0.001); in contrast, participants of the in-person education increased their exercise self-efficacy(p < 0.001). Overall,31% of virtual and 71% of in-person education participants reported being satisfied with the education delivery format.

CONCLUSIONS

A virtual group-based education curriculum was effective at improving knowledge and changing behaviour. Similar results were observed in those that received in-person education. Tailoring virtual education interventions to support exercise self-efficacy is warranted.

PRACTICE IMPLICATION

This study strengthens the evidence supporting virtual education in CR.

Factors that predict compliance in a virtual cardiac rehabilitation program

BACKGROUND

Despite the well-established benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) for patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), participation in CR remain low. Virtual CR programs present a unique opportunity to promote utilization. To date, few virtual CR cohorts have been analyzed for compliance. This study aims to determine factors that predict compliance within a large virtual CR program in the United States.

METHODS

We analyzed 1409 patients enrolled in the Kaiser Permanente Mid-Atlantic States Virtual CR program that consists of 12 CR sessions via telephone. Demographic characteristics, as well as body weight, blood pressure, HbA1c level, and smoking status were collected at admission. Patients were further classified by CVD diagnosis codes. Compliance was defined as at least 75% (9/12 sessions) attendance. Data was analyzed using simple and multiple regression models with significance defined as P < 0.05.

RESULTS

Age was the single strongest predictor for virtual CR compliance (adjusted R2 = 0.58; P < 0.001), and non-compliant patients were younger. HbA1C level, CVD diagnosis codes, and smoking status each moderately predicted compliance (adjusted R2 = 0.48, 0.42, and 0.31, respectively; P < 0.001). Smoking and HbA1C level combined in a multiple regression model significantly improved prediction of compliance (adjusted R2 = 0.79, P < 0.01). Sex, baseline weight or hypertension were not significant predictors of CR compliance.

CONCLUSIONS

Age, diabetes, CVD diagnoses, smoking status at admission are independent predictors of compliance in a large virtual CR program. Targeted intervention could be designed accordingly to improve CR compliance.

Health Disparities, Clinical Trials, and the Digital Divide

In the past few years, there have been rapid advances in technology and the use of digital tools in health care and clinical research. Although these innovations have immense potential to improve health care delivery and outcomes, there are genuine concerns related to inadvertent widening of the digital gap consequentially exacerbating health disparities. As such, it is important that we critically evaluate the impact of expansive digital transformation in medicine and clinical research on health equity. For digital solutions to truly improve the landscape of health care and clinical trial participation for all persons in an equitable way, targeted interventions to address historic injustices, structural racism, and social and digital determinants of health are essential. The urgent need to focus on interventions to promote health equity was made abundantly clear with the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, which magnified long-standing social and racial health disparities. Novel digital technologies present a unique opportunity to embed equity ideals into the ecosystem of health care and clinical research. In this review, we examine racial and ethnic diversity in clinical trials, historic instances of unethical research practices in biomedical research and its impact on clinical trial participation, and the digital divide in health care and clinical research, and we propose suggestions to achieve digital health equity in clinical trials. We also highlight key digital health opportunities in cardiovascular medicine and dermatology as exemplars, and we offer future directions for development and adoption of patient-centric interventions aimed at narrowing the digital divide and mitigating health inequities.

No transport? No worries! Cardiac telerehabilitation is a feasible and effective alternative to centre-based programs

Given the under-utilisation of cardiac rehabilitation despite its benefits, there has been a shift towards alternative delivery models. The recent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has accelerated this shift, leading to a growing interest in home-based cardiac rehabilitation including telerehabilitation. There is increasing evidence to support cardiac telerehabilitation, with studies generally demonstrating comparable outcomes and potential cost-benefits. This review aims to provide a synopsis of the current evidence on home-based cardiac rehabilitation with a focus on telerehabilitation and practical considerations.

Main Mechanisms of Remote Monitoring Programs for Cardiac Rehabilitation and Secondary Prevention: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW

PURPOSE

The objective of this report was to identify the main mechanisms of home-based remote monitoring programs for cardiac rehabilitation (RM CR) and examine how these mechanisms vary by context.

METHODS

This was a systematic review using realist synthesis. To be included, articles had to be published in English between 2010 and November 2020 and contain specific data related to mechanisms of effect of programs. MEDLINE All (1946-) via Ovid, Embase (1974-) via Ovid, APA PsycINFO (1806-), CINAHL via EBSCO, Scopus databases, and gray literature were searched.

RESULTS

From 13 747 citations, 91 focused on cardiac conditions, with 23 reports including patients in CR. Effective RM CR programs more successfully adapted to different patient home settings and broader lives, incorporated individualized patient health data, and had content designed specifically for patients in cardiac rehabilitation. Relatively minor but common technical issues could significantly reduce perceived benefits. Patients and families were highly receptive to the programs and viewed themselves as fortunate to receive such services. The RM CR programs could be improved via incorporating more connectivity to other patients. No clear negative effects on perceived utility or outcomes occurred by patient age, ethnicity, or sex. Overall, the programs were seen to best suit highly motivated patients and consolidated rather than harmed existing relationships with health care professionals and teams.

CONCLUSIONS

Remote monitoring CR programs are perceived by patients to be beneficial and attractive. Future RM CR programs should consider adaptability to different home settings, incorporate individualized health data, and contain content specific to patient needs.

Home-based versus centre-based cardiac rehabilitation

BACKGROUND

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death globally. Traditionally, centre-based cardiac rehabilitation programmes are offered to individuals after cardiac events to aid recovery and prevent further cardiac illness. Home-based and technology-supported cardiac rehabilitation programmes have been introduced in an attempt to widen access and participation, especially during the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic. This is an update of a review previously published in 2009, 2015, and 2017.

OBJECTIVES

To compare the effect of home-based (which may include digital/telehealth interventions) and supervised centre-based cardiac rehabilitation on mortality and morbidity, exercise-capacity, health-related quality of life, and modifiable cardiac risk factors in patients with heart disease SEARCH METHODS: We updated searches from the previous Cochrane Review by searching the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL), MEDLINE (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), PsycINFO (Ovid) and CINAHL (EBSCO) on 16 September 2022. We also searched two clinical trials registers as well as previous systematic reviews and reference lists of included studies. No language restrictions were applied.

SELECTION CRITERIA

We included randomised controlled trials that compared centre-based cardiac rehabilitation (e.g. hospital, sports/community centre) with home-based programmes (± digital/telehealth platforms) in adults with myocardial infarction, angina, heart failure, or who had undergone revascularisation.

DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

Two review authors independently screened all identified references for inclusion based on predefined inclusion criteria. Disagreements were resolved through discussion or by involving a third review author. Two authors independently extracted outcome data and study characteristics and assessed risk of bias. Certainty of evidence was assessed using GRADE.

MAIN RESULTS

We included three new trials in this update, bringing a total of 24 trials that have randomised a total of 3046 participants undergoing cardiac rehabilitation. A further nine studies were identified and are awaiting classification. Manual searching of trial registers until 16 September 2022 revealed a further 14 clinical trial registrations - these are ongoing. Participants had a history of acute myocardial infarction, revascularisation, or heart failure. Although there was little evidence of high risk of bias, a number of studies provided insufficient detail to enable assessment of potential risk of bias; in particular, details of generation and concealment of random allocation sequencing and blinding of outcome assessment were poorly reported. No evidence of a difference was seen between home- and centre-based cardiac rehabilitation in our primary outcomes up to 12 months of follow-up: total mortality (risk ratio [RR] = 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.65 to 2.16; participants = 1647; studies = 12/comparisons = 14; low-certainty evidence) or exercise capacity (standardised mean difference (SMD) = -0.10, 95% CI -0.24 to 0.04; participants = 2343; studies = 24/comparisons = 28; low-certainty evidence). The majority of evidence (N=71 / 77 comparisons of either total or domain scores) showed no significant difference in health-related quality of life up to 24 months follow-up between home- and centre-based cardiac rehabilitation. Trials were generally of short duration, with only three studies reporting outcomes beyond 12 months (exercise capacity: SMD 0.11, 95% CI -0.01 to 0.23; participants = 1074; studies = 3; moderate-certainty evidence). There was a similar level of trial completion (RR 1.03, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.08; participants = 2638; studies = 22/comparisons = 26; low-certainty evidence) between home-based and centre-based participants. The cost per patient of centre- and home-based programmes was similar.

AUTHORS' CONCLUSIONS

This update supports previous conclusions that home- (± digital/telehealth platforms) and centre-based forms of cardiac rehabilitation formally supported by healthcare staff seem to be similarly effective in improving clinical and health-related quality of life outcomes in patients after myocardial infarction, or revascularisation, or with heart failure. This finding supports the continued expansion of healthcare professional supervised home-based cardiac rehabilitation programmes (± digital/telehealth platforms), especially important in the context of the ongoing global SARS-CoV-2 pandemic that has much limited patients in face-to-face access of hospital and community health services. Where settings are able to provide both supervised centre- and home-based programmes, consideration of the preference of the individual patient would seem appropriate. Although not included in the scope of this review, there is an increasing evidence base supporting the use of hybrid models that combine elements of both centre-based and home-based cardiac rehabilitation delivery. Further data are needed to determine: (1) whether the short-term effects of home/digital-telehealth and centre-based cardiac rehabilitation models of delivery can be confirmed in the longer term; (2) the relative clinical effectiveness and safety of home-based programmes for other heart patients, e.g. post-valve surgery and atrial fibrillation.

A survey of digital access, digital confidence and rehabilitation delivery preferences of patients referred for CR

Remote delivery of cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) has been vital during the COVID pandemic when restrictions have been placed on face-to- face services. In the future, CR services are likely to offer alternatives to centre- based CR, including digital options. However, little is known about the digital access and confidence of CR service users, or their CR delivery preferences. A telephone survey was conducted of those referred for CR in the London boroughs of Lambeth and Southwark (n=60) in which questions were asked about digital access and confidence, as well as current and future delivery preferences for their CR. Between March and July 2021, 60 service-users met the inclusion criteria and were recruited for a telephone survey (mean age 60 ± 11.2 years). Of those, 82% had regular access to a smartphone, 60% to a computer or laptop and 43% to a tablet device. A high proportion of service users perceived themselves to be 'extremely' or 'somewhat' confident to use their devices. Thirty-nine (65%) service users would currently prefer a face-to- face assessment, rising to 82% once the perceived COVID-19 threat and restrictions are less. Preferences for accessing exercise were equally split between face-to-face and remotely supported independent exercise, with low interest in digital options. Delivery preferences for education, relaxation and peer support were more heterogeneous with interest in all delivery options. In conclusion, digital access and confidence in CR service users was good. Redesigning CR services to offer more rehabilitation delivery options, aligned with patient choice may increase uptake and further trials are needed to assess the impact.

Habitual physical activity levels of adults with heart failure: systematic review and meta-analysis

OBJECTIVE

To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis to quantify habitual physical activity (PA) levels of patients with heart failure (HF) and assess the quality of reporting of device-assessed PA.

METHODS

Eight electronic databases were searched up to 17 November 2021. Data on the study and population characteristics, method of PA measurement and PA metrics were extracted. A random-effects meta-analysis (restricted maximum likelihood with Knapp-Hartung SE adjustment) was conducted.

RESULTS

Seventy-five studies were included in the review (n=7775 patients with HF). Meta-analysis was restricted to mean steps per day, encompassing 27 studies (n=1720 patients with HF). Pooled mean steps per day were 5040 (95% CI: 4272 to 5807). The 95% prediction interval for mean steps per day in a future study was 1262 to 8817. Meta-regression at the study level revealed that a 10-year increment in the mean age of patients was associated with 1121 fewer steps per day (95% CI: 258 to 1984).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with HF are a low-active population. These findings have implications for the way in which PA is targeted in patients with HF, and interventions should focus on addressing the age-related decline observed as well as increasing PA to improve HF symptoms and quality of life.

PROSPERO REGISTRATION NUMBER

CRD42020167786.

Management of chronic breathlessness in primary care: what do GPs, non-GP specialists, and allied health professionals think?

BACKGROUND

To explore the perspectives of GPs, non-GP specialists, and allied health professionals on the role of primary care in diagnosing and managing chronic breathlessness, the barriers faced, and the resources needed to optimise care of patients with chronic breathlessness.

METHODS

This was a qualitative study involving focus group discussions that included 35GPs, non-GP specialists, and allied health professionals. Topics explored included: (1) views on the role of primary care in diagnosing and managing chronic breathlessness; (2) barriers to optimal assessment in primary care; and (3) facilitators to further optimise the care of patients with chronic breathlessness.

RESULTS

All participants considered that primary care has a central role to play in the assessment and management of chronic breathlessness, but greater access to referral services, suitable funding structures, and upskilling on the use of diagnostic tests such as spirometry and electrocardiography are required for this to be realised. Both GPs and non-GP specialists described great potential for developing better linkages, including new ways of referral and online consultations, greater ease of referral to allied health services, even if conducted virtually, for patients with functional causes of breathlessness. Participants identified a need to develop integrated breathlessness clinics for patients referred by GPs, which would ensure patients receive optimal care in the shortest possible time frame.

CONCLUSIONS

GPs are crucial to achieving optimal care for breathless patients, especially given the multifactorial and multimorbid nature of breathlessness; however, there are significant gaps in services and resources at present that limit their ability to perform this role.

Global perspectives on heart disease rehabilitation and secondary prevention: a scientific statement from the Association of Cardiovascular Nursing and Allied Professions, European Association of Preventive Cardiology, and International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation

Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death, morbidity, disability, and reduced health-related quality of life, as well as economic burden worldwide, with some 80% of disease burden occurring in the low- and middle-income country (LMIC) settings. With increasing numbers of people living longer with symptomatic disease, the effectiveness and accessibility of secondary preventative and rehabilitative health services have never been more important. Whilst LMICs experience the highest prevalence and mortality rates, the global approach to secondary prevention and cardiac rehabilitation, which mitigates this burden, has traditionally been driven from clinical guidelines emanating from high-income settings. This state-of-the art review provides a contemporary global perspective on cardiac rehabilitation and secondary prevention, contrasting the challenges of and opportunities for high vs. lower income settings. Actionable solutions to overcome system, clinician, programme, and patient level barriers to cardiac rehabilitation access in LMICs are provided.

Comparison of telehealth and supervised phase III cardiac rehabilitation in regional Australia: protocol for a non-inferiority trial

INTRODUCTION

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programmes (ExCRP) promote recovery and secondary prevention for individuals with cardiovascular disease (CVD). Despite this, enrolment and adherence to ExCRP in rural locations is low. Telehealth programmes provide a convenient, home-based intervention, but concerns remain about compliance to exercise prescription. This paper presents the rationale and protocol design to determine if telehealth delivered ExCRP is not inferior to supervised ExCRP for improving cardiovascular function and exercise fidelity.

METHOD AND ANALYSIS

A non-inferiority, parallel (1:1), single-blinded randomised clinical trial will be conducted. Fifty patients with CVD will be recruited from a rural phase II ExCRP. Participants will be randomly assigned to telehealth or supervised ExCRP and prescribed three weekly exercise sessions for 6 weeks. Exercise sessions will include a 10 min warm up, up to 30 min of continuous aerobic exercise at a workload equivalent to the ventilatory anaerobic threshold and a 10 min cool down. The primary outcome will be change in cardiorespiratory fitness as measured by cardiopulmonary exercise test. Secondary outcome measures will include change in blood lipid profile, heart rate variability, pulse wave velocity, actigraphy measured sleep quality and training fidelity. Non-inferiority will be confirmed if intention-to-treat and per-protocol analyses conclude the same outcome following independent samples t-test with p<0.025.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Research ethics committees at La Trobe University, St John of God Health Care and Bendigo Health approved the study protocol and informed consent. Findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and disseminated among stakeholders.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12622000872730p; pre-results.

Cardiac rehabilitation for heart failure: 'Cinderella' or evidence-based pillar of care?

Cardiac rehabilitation remains the 'Cinderella' of treatments for heart failure. This state-of-the-art review provides a contemporary update on the evidence base, clinical guidance, and status of cardiac rehabilitation delivery for patients with heart failure. Given that cardiac rehabilitation participation results in important improvements in patient outcomes, including health-related quality of life, this review argues that an exercise-based rehabilitation is a key pillar of heart failure management alongside drug and medical device provision. To drive future improvements in access and uptake, health services should offer heart failure patients a choice of evidence-based modes of rehabilitation delivery, including home, supported by digital technology, alongside traditional centre-based programmes (or combinations of modes, 'hybrid') and according to stage of disease and patient preference.

Reshaping care in the aftermath of the pandemic. Implications for cardiology health systems

In the last two years, the COVID-19 pandemic has undeniably changed everyday life and significantly reshaped the healthcare systems. Besides the direct effect on daily care leading to significant excess mortality, several collateral damages have been observed during the pandemic. The impact of the pandemic led to staff shortages, disrupted education, worse healthcare professional well-being, and a lack of proper clinical training and research. In this review we highlight the results of these important changes and how can the healthcare systems can adapt to prevent unprecedented events in case of future catastrophes.

The roles of community health nurses for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Northeastern Thailand: A qualitative study

Objective

Community health nurses play an important role in primary health care service, especially during the spread of COVID-19. This study aimed to describe the work and activities of community health nurses focusing on the care of older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Northeastern Thailand.

Method

This was a qualitative research study. The methods, including observation, in-depth interview, secondary data, and focus group discussion, were employed to obtain data from 46 key informants. The process started from February to August 2022 in northeastern Thailand. Data were analyzed using content analysis.

Results

The results of this study were organized into 3 main themes focusing on 1) Community health nurses' role for older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic, which consists of 12 sub-themes; 2) Barriers of community health nurses in caring for older adults during the pandemic consisted of 2 sub-themes; and 3) Factors contributing to the success of community health nurses in managing health and providing care for older adults during the pandemic consisted of 4 sub-themes.

Conclusions

The findings showed that community health nurses had played important roles, such as educating and advocating health, providing care, promoting and empowering people in the community toward health, and giving emotional and nutritional support to older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study can be used as a guideline for policymakers and health-related agencies to develop healthcare strategies and to optimize the management of community health nurses in caring for older adults during the pandemic. COVID-19 is a major public health challenge; therefore, understanding the roles and activities of community health nurses helps improve primary care cluster development, strengthens healthcare services in community, and for everyone in the community to be ready for possible challenge of future global pandemics.

Metacognitive therapy home-based self-help for anxiety and depression in cardiovascular disease patients in the UK: A single-blind randomised controlled trial

BACKGROUND

Anxiety and depression in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) are associated with greater morbidity, mortality, and increased healthcare costs. Current psychological interventions within CR have small effects based on low-quality studies of clinic-based interventions with limited access to home-based psychological support. We tested the effectiveness of adding self-help metacognitive therapy (Home-MCT) to CR in reducing anxiety and depression in a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

METHODS AND FINDINGS

We ran a single-blind, multi-centre, two-arm RCT. A total of 240 CR patients were recruited from 5 NHS-Trusts across North West England between April 20, 2017 and April 6, 2020. Patients were randomly allocated to Home-MCT+CR (n = 118, 49.2%) or usual CR alone (n = 122, 50.8%). Randomisation was 1:1 via randomised blocks within hospital site, balancing arms on sex and baseline Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS) scores. The primary outcome was the HADS total score at posttreatment (4-month follow-up). Follow-up data collection occurred between August 7, 2017 and July 20, 2020. Analysis was by intention to treat. The 4-month outcome favoured the MCT intervention group demonstrating significantly lower end of treatment scores (HADS total: adjusted mean difference = -2.64 [-4.49 to -0.78], p = 0.005, standardised mean difference (SMD) = 0.38). Sensitivity analysis using multiple imputation (MI) of missing values supported these findings. Most secondary outcomes also favoured Home-MCT+CR, especially in reduction of post-traumatic stress symptoms (SMD = 0.51). There were 23 participants (19%) lost to follow-up in Home-MCT+CR and 4 participants (3%) lost to follow-up in CR alone. No serious adverse events were reported. The main limitation is the absence of longer term (e.g., 12-month) follow-up data.

CONCLUSION

Self-help home-based MCT was effective in reducing total anxiety/depression in patients undergoing CR. Improvement occurred across most psychological measures. Home-MCT was a promising addition to cardiac rehabilitation and may offer improved access to effective psychological treatment in cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

NCT03999359.

Patient Preferences for Cardiac Rehabilitation - A Systematic Review

BACKGROUND

Although a large number of studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of cardiac rehabilitation(CR), patient preferences for CR remain unclear. Knowing patient preferences may contribute to increasing patient participation and adherence, thus improving patient prognosis.

METHODS

A systematic search was carried out using electronic databases and manual reference checks from inception until 15th June 2022. Quantitative studies, qualitative studies and mixed methods studies assessing patient preferences for CR were included. Two researchers independently conducted study selectionand data extraction. CR preferences were divided into three categories: CR settings, CR components, and CR contents. A narrative synthesis was applied to integrate the results of the included studies. The Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) was used to assess the quality of included studies.

RESULTS

Ultimately, 17 publications were included in this study. Regarding CR settings, most patients preferred the hospital to home, some considered both, and a few were willing to accept the local CR club as an alternative setting to the hospital. For CR components, regardless of age and gender, patients considered exercise training and nutrition counseling to be the most important and smoking cessation to be the least important. In exercise intervention of CR contents, progress discussion and encouragement were rated as most critical, and non-conflicting with other activities was rated as least critical. In psychological intervention of CR contents, most patients were willing to accept psychological intervention, and a few patients wanted to heal the trauma with the passage of time.

CONCLUSION

This systematic review provides important insights into patient preferences for CR, clarifying patient preferences for CR settings, components, and contents, along with possible influencing factors. Patient preferences may change due to the COVID-19 epidemic, and there is still a need to focus on patient preferences for CR and conduct more relevant primary research to validate the findings of this paper in the future.

Cardiac rehabilitation for patients with heart failure: association with readmission and mortality risk

AIMS

To examine the temporal trends and factors associated with national cardiac rehabilitation (CR) referral and compare the risk of hospital readmission and mortality in those referred for CR versus no referral.

METHODS AND RESULTS

This cohort study includes all adult patients alive 120 days from incident heart failure (HF) identified by the Danish Heart Failure Registry (n = 33 257) between 2010 and 2018. Multivariable logistic regression models were used to assess the association between CR referral and patient factors and acute all-cause hospital readmission and mortality at 1 year following HF admission. Overall, 46.7% of HF patients were referred to CR, increasing from 31.7% in 2010 to 52.2% in 2018. Several factors were associated with lower odds of CR referral: male sex [odds ratio (OR): 0.85; 95% confidence interval: 0.80-0.89], older age, unemployment, retirement, living alone, non-Danish ethnic origin, low educational level, New York Heart Association (NYHA) class IV vs. I (OR: 0.75; 0.60-0.95), left ventricular ejection fraction >40%, and comorbidity (stroke, chronic kidney disease, atrial fibrillation/flutter, and diabetes). Myocardial infarction, arthritis, coronary artery bypass grafting, percutaneous coronary intervention, valvular surgery, NYHA class II, and use of angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors were associated with higher odds of CR referral. CR referral was associated with lower risk of acute all-cause readmission (OR: 0.92; 0.87-0.97) and all-cause mortality (OR: 0.65; 0.58-0.72).

CONCLUSION

Although increased over time, only one in two HF patients in Denmark were referred to CR in 2018. Strategies are needed to reduce referral disparities, focusing on subgroups of patients at highest risk of non-referral.

Enhanced Telehealth Home-Monitoring Intervention for Vulnerable and Frail Patients after Cardiac Surgery (THE-FACS Pilot Intervention Study)

Background

Frail cardiac surgery patients have an increased risk of worse postoperative outcomes. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the implementation of a novel Telehealth Home monitoring Enhanced-Frailty And Cardiac Surgery (THE-FACS) intervention and determine its impact on clinical outcomes in frail patients post-cardiac surgery.

Methods

Frail/vulnerable patients defined by Edmonton Frailty Scale (EFS > 4) undergoing cardiac surgery were prospectively enrolled (November 2019 -March 2020) at the New Brunswick Heart Centre. Exclusion criteria included age < 55 years, emergent status, minimally invasive surgery, lack of home support, and > 10-days postoperative hospital stay. Following standard training on THE-FACS, participants were sent home with a tablet device to answer questions about their health/recovery and measure blood pressure for 30-consecutive days. Transmitted data were monitored by trained cardiac surgery follow-up nurses. Patients were contacted only if the algorithm based on the patient’s self-collected data triggered an alert. Patients who completed the study were compared to historical controls. The primary outcome of interest was to determine the number of patients that could complete THE-FACS; secondary outcomes included participant/caregiver satisfaction and impact on hospital readmission.

Results

We identified 86 eligible (EFS > 4), out of 254 patients scheduled for elective cardiac surgery during the study period (vulnerable: 34%). The patients who consented to participate in THE-FACS (64/86, 74%) had a mean age of 69.1 ± 6.4 years, 25% were female, 79.7% underwent isolated Coronary Artery Bypass Graft (CABG) and median EFS was 6 (5–8). 29/64 (45%) were excluded post-enrollment due to prolonged hospitalization (15/64) or requirement for hospital-to-hospital transfer (12/64). Of the remaining 35 patients, 21 completed the 30-day follow-up (completion rate:60%). Reasons for withdrawal (14/35, 40%) were mostly due to technical difficulties with the tablet. Hospital readmission, although non-significant, was reduced in THE-FACS participants compared to controls (0% vs. 14.3%). A satisfaction survey revealed > 90% satisfaction and ~ 67% willingness to re-use a home monitoring device.

Conclusions

THE-FACS intervention can be used to successfully monitor vulnerable patients returning home post-cardiac surgery. However, a significant number of frail patients could not benefit from THE-FACS given prolonged hospitalization and technological challenges. Our findings suggest that despite overall excellent satisfaction in participants who completed THE-FACS, there remain major challenges for wide-scale implementation of technology-driven home monitoring programs as only 24% completed the study.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12877-022-03531-4.

Why Do so Few People with Heart Failure Receive Cardiac Rehabilitation?

Many people with heart failure do not receive cardiac rehabilitation despite a strong evidence base attesting to its effectiveness, and national and international guideline recommendations. A more holistic approach to heart failure rehabilitation is proposed as an alternative to the predominant focus on exercise, emphasising the important role of education and psychosocial support, and acknowledging that this depends on patient need, choice and preference. An individualised, needs-led approach, exploiting the latest digital technologies when appropriate, may help fill existing gaps, improve access, uptake and completion, and ensure optimal health and wellbeing for people with heart failure and their families. Exercise, education, lifestyle change and psychosocial support should, as core elements, unless contraindicated due to medical reasons, be offered routinely to people with heart failure, but tailored to individual circumstances, such as with regard to age and frailty, and possibly for recipients of cardiac implantable electronic devices or left ventricular assist devices.

COVID-19, cardiac involvement and cardiac rehabilitation: Insights from a rehabilitation perspective - State of the Art

Since the beginning of the pandemic, many novel coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) patients have experienced multisystem involvement or become critically ill and treated in intensive care units, and even died. Among these systemic effects, cardiac involvement may have very important consequences for the patient’s prognosis and later life. Patients with COVID-19 may develop cardiac complications such as heart failure, myocarditis, pericarditis, vasculitis, acute coronary syndrome, and cardiac arrhythmias or trigger an accompanying cardiac disease. The ratio of COVID-19 cardiac involvement ranges between 7 and 28% in hospitalized patients with worse outcomes, longer stay in the intensive care unit, and a higher risk of death. Furthermore, deconditioning due to immobility and muscle involvement can be seen in post-COVID-19 patients and significant physical, cognitive and psychosocial impairments may be observed in some cases. Considering that the definition of health is “a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being”, individuals with heart involvement due to COVID-19 should be rehabilitated by evaluating all these aspects of the disease effect. In the light of the rehabilitation perspective and given the increasing number of patients with cardiac manifestations of COVID-19, in this review, we discuss the rehabilitation principles in this group of patients.

The collateral damage of COVID-19 to cardiovascular services: a meta-analysis

AIMS

The effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on care and outcomes across non-COVID-19 cardiovascular (CV) diseases is unknown. A systematic review and meta-analysis was performed to quantify the effect and investigate for variation by CV disease, geographic region, country income classification and the time course of the pandemic.

METHODS AND RESULTS

From January 2019 to December 2021, Medline and Embase databases were searched for observational studies comparing a pandemic and pre-pandemic period with relation to CV disease hospitalisations, diagnostic and interventional procedures, outpatient consultations, and mortality. Observational data were synthesised by incidence rate ratios (IRR) and risk ratios (RR) for binary outcomes and weighted mean differences for continuous outcomes with 95% confidence intervals. The study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021265930). A total of 158 studies, covering 49 countries and 6 continents, were used for quantitative synthesis. Most studies (80%) reported information for high-income countries (HICs). Across all CV disease and geographies there were fewer hospitalisations, diagnostic and interventional procedures, and outpatient consultations during the pandemic. By meta-regression, in low-middle income countries (LMICs) compared to HICs the decline in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) hospitalisations (RR 0.79, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.66-0.94) and revascularisation (RR 0.73, 95% CI 0.62-0.87) was more severe. In LMICs, but not HICs, in-hospital mortality increased for STEMI (RR 1.22, 95% CI 1.10-1.37) and heart failure (RR 1.08, 95% CI 1.04-1.12). The magnitude of decline in hospitalisations for CV diseases did not differ between the first and second wave.

CONCLUSIONS

There was substantial global collateral CV damage during the COVID-19 pandemic with disparity in severity by country income classification.

Clinical Outcomes and Qualitative Perceptions of In-person, Hybrid, and Virtual Cardiac Rehabilitation

PURPOSE

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is evolving to include both in-person and virtual delivery. Our objective was to compare, in CR patients, the association of in-person, hybrid, and virtual CR with change in performance on the 6-min walk test (6MWT) between enrollment and completion.

METHODS

Patients enrolled in CR between October 22, 2019, and May 10, 2021, were categorized into in-person, hybrid, or virtual groups by number of in-person and virtual visits. All patients received individualized exercise training and health behavior counseling. Cardiac rehabilitation was delivered to patients in the hybrid and virtual cohorts using synchronous video exercise and/or asynchronous telephone visits. Measurements at CR enrollment and completion included the 6MWT, blood pressure (BP), depression, anxiety, waist-to-hip ratio, and cardiac self-efficacy.

RESULTS

Of 187 CR patients, 37/97 (38.1%) were in-person patients and 58/90 (64.4%) were hybrid/virtual patients ( P = .001). Compared to in-person (51.5 ± 59.4 m) improvement in the 6MWT was similar in hybrid (63.4 ± 55.6; P = .46) and virtual (63.2 ± 59.6; P = .55) compared with in-person (51.5 ± 59.4). Hybrid and virtual patients experienced similar improvements in BP control and anxiety. Virtual patients experienced less improvement in depression symptoms. There were no statistically significant changes in waist-to-hip ratio or cardiac self-efficacy. Qualitative themes included the adaptability of virtual CR, importance of relationships between patients and CR staff, and need for training and organizational adjustments to adopt virtual CR.

CONCLUSIONS

Hybrid and virtual CR were associated with similar improvements in functional capacity to in-person. Virtual and hybrid CR have the potential to expand availability without compromising outcomes.

Safety of home-based cardiac rehabilitation: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation is an evidence-based intervention that aims to improve health outcomes in cardiovascular disease patients, but it is largely underutilized. One strategy for improving utilization is home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR). Previous research has shown that HBCR programs are feasible and effective. However, there is a lack of evidence on safety issues in different cardiac populations. This systematic review aimed to provide an evidence-based overview of the safety of HBCR.

OBJECTIVES

To examine the incidence and severity of adverse events of HBCR.

METHODS

The following databases were searched: CINAHL, The Cochrane Library, Embase, MEDLINE, PubMed, Web of Science, Global Health, and Chinese BioMedical Literature Database for randomized controlled trials. The included trials were written in English and analyzed the incidence of adverse events (AEs) as a primary or secondary intervention outcome.

RESULTS

Five studies showed AEs incidence, of which only one study reported severe AE associated with HBCR exercise. The incidence rate of severe AEs from the sample (n = 808) was estimated as 1 per 23,823 patient-hour of HBCR exercise. More than half patients included were stratified into a high-risk group. In the studies were found no deaths or hospitalizations related to HBCR exercise.

CONCLUSION

The risk of AEs during HBCR seems very low. Our results concerning the safety of HBCR should induce cardiac patients to be more active in their environment and practice physical exercise regularly.

At the Crossroads of Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery—Benching Single Hospital Experience to a National Registry: A Plea for Risk Management Technology

Almost 30 years after the first endoscopic mitral valve repair, Minimally Invasive Mitral Valve Surgery (MIMVS) has become the standard at many institutions due to optimal clinical results and fast recovery. The question that arises is can already good results be further improved by an Institutional Risk Management Performance (IRMP) system in decreasing risks in minimally invasive mitral valve surgery (MIMVS)? As of yet, there are no reports on IRMP and learning systems in the literature. (2) Methods: We described and appraised our five-year single institutional experience with MIMVS in isolated valve surgery included in the Netherlands Heart Registry (NHR) and investigated root causes of high-impact complications. (3) Results: The 120-day and 12-month mortality were 1.1% and 1.9%, respectively, compared to the average of 4.3% and 5.3% reported in the NHR. The regurgitation rate was 1.4% compared to 5.2% nationwide. The few high-impact complications appeared not to be preventable. (4) Discussion: In MIMVS, freedom from major and minor complications is a strong indicator of an effective IRMP but remains concealed from physicians and patients, despite its relevance to shared decision making. Innovation adds to the complexity of MIMVS and challenges surgical competence. An IRMP system may detect and control new risks earlier. (5) Conclusion: An IRMP system contributes to an effective reduction of risks, pain and discomfort; provides relevant input for shared decision making; and warrants the safe introduction of new technology. Crossroads conclusions: investment in machine learning and AI for an effective IRMP system is recommended and the roles for commanding and operating surgeons should be considered.

A pragmatic effectiveness-implementation study comparing trial evidence with routinely collected outcome data for patients receiving the REACH-HF home-based cardiac rehabilitation programme

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation for heart failure continues to be greatly underused worldwide despite being a Class I recommendation in international clinical guidelines and uptake is low in women and patients with mental health comorbidities.

METHODS

Rehabilitation EnAblement in CHronic Heart Failure (REACH-HF) programme was implemented in four UK National Health Service early adopter sites ('Beacon Sites') between June 2019 and June 2020. Implementation and patient-reported outcome data were collected across sites as part of the National Audit of Cardiac Rehabilitation. The change in key outcomes before and after the supervised period of REACH-HF intervention across the Beacon Sites was assessed and compared to those of the intervention arm of the REACH-HF multicentre trial.

RESULTS

Compared to the REACH-HF multicentre trial, patients treated at the Beacon Site were more likely to be female (33.8% vs 22.9%), older (75.6 vs 70.1), had a more severe classification of heart failure (26.5% vs 17.7%), had poorer baseline health-related quality of life (MLHFQ score 36.1 vs 31.4), were more depressed (HADS score 6.4 vs 4.1) and anxious (HADS score 7.2 vs 4.7), and had lower exercise capacity (ISWT distance 190 m vs 274.7 m). There appeared to be a substantial heterogeneity in the implementation process across the four Beacon Sites as evidenced by the variation in levels of patient recruitment, operationalisation of the REACH-HF intervention and patient outcomes. Overall lower improvements in patient-reported outcomes at the Beacon Sites compared to the trial may reflect differences in the population studied (having higher morbidity at baseline) as well as the marked challenges in intervention delivery during the COVID-19 pandemic.

CONCLUSION

The results of this study illustrate the challenges in consistently implementing an intervention (shown to be clinically effective and cost-effective in a multicentre trial) into real-world practice, especially in the midst of a global pandemic. Further research is needed to establish the real-world effectiveness of the REACH-HF intervention in different populations.

Telehealth Delivery of a Multi-Disciplinary Rehabilitation Programme for Upper Gastro-Intestinal Cancer: ReStOre@Home Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Telehealth has enabled access to rehabilitation throughout the pandemic. We assessed the feasibility of delivering a multi-disciplinary, multi-component rehabilitation programme (ReStOre@Home) to cancer survivors via telehealth.

METHODS

This single-arm mixed methods feasibility study recruited participants who had completed curative treatment for oesophago-gastric cancer for a 12-week telehealth rehabilitation programme, involving group resistance training, remotely monitored aerobic training, one-to-one dietetic counselling, one-to-one support calls and group education. The primary outcome was feasibility, measured by recruitment rates, attendance, retention, incidents, acceptability, Telehealth Usability Questionnaire (TUQ) and analysis of semi-structured interviews.

RESULTS

Characteristics of the twelve participants were: 65.42 ± 7.24 years; 11 male; 10.8 ± 3.9 months post-op; BMI 25.61 ± 4.37; received neoadjuvant chemotherapy 7/12; received adjuvant chemotherapy 4/12; hospital length of stay 16 days (median). Recruitment rate was 32.4%, and retention rate was 75%. Mean attendance was: education 90%; dietetics 90%; support calls 84%; resistance training 78%. Mean TUQ score was 4.69/5. Adaptations to the planned resistance training programme were required. Participants reported that ReStOre@Home enhanced physical and psychological wellbeing, and online delivery was convenient. Some reported a preference for in-person contact but felt that the online group sessions provided adequate peer support.

CONCLUSION

Telehealth delivery of ReStOre@Home was most feasible in individuals with moderate to high levels of digital skills. Low level of digitals skills was a barrier to recruitment and retention. Participants reported high levels of programme adherence and participant satisfaction. Adaptations to future programmes, including introducing elements of in-person contact, are required.

Research on Digital Technology Use in Cardiology: Bibliometric Analysis

Background

Digital technology uses in cardiology have become a popular research focus in recent years. However, there has been no published bibliometric report that analyzed the corresponding academic literature in order to derive key publishing trends and characteristics of this scientific area.

Objective

We used a bibliometric approach to identify and analyze the academic literature on digital technology uses in cardiology, and to unveil popular research topics, key authors, institutions, countries, and journals. We further captured the cardiovascular conditions and diagnostic tools most commonly investigated within this field.

Methods

The Web of Science electronic database was queried to identify relevant papers on digital technology uses in cardiology. Publication and citation data were acquired directly from the database. Complete bibliographic data were exported to VOSviewer, a dedicated bibliometric software package, and related to the semantic content of titles, abstracts, and keywords. A term map was constructed for findings visualization.

Results

The analysis was based on data from 12,529 papers. Of the top 5 most productive institutions, 4 were based in the United States. The United States was the most productive country (4224/12,529, 33.7%), followed by United Kingdom (1136/12,529, 9.1%), Germany (1067/12,529, 8.5%), China (682/12,529, 5.4%), and Italy (622/12,529, 5.0%). Cardiovascular diseases that had been frequently investigated included hypertension (152/12,529, 1.2%), atrial fibrillation (122/12,529, 1.0%), atherosclerosis (116/12,529, 0.9%), heart failure (106/12,529, 0.8%), and arterial stiffness (80/12,529, 0.6%). Recurring modalities were electrocardiography (170/12,529, 1.4%), angiography (127/12,529, 1.0%), echocardiography (127/12,529, 1.0%), digital subtraction angiography (111/12,529, 0.9%), and photoplethysmography (80/12,529, 0.6%). For a literature subset on smartphone apps and wearable devices, the Journal of Medical Internet Research (20/632, 3.2%) and other JMIR portfolio journals (51/632, 8.0%) were the major publishing venues.

Conclusions

Digital technology uses in cardiology target physicians, patients, and the general public. Their functions range from assisting diagnosis, recording cardiovascular parameters, and patient education, to teaching laypersons about cardiopulmonary resuscitation. This field already has had a great impact in health care, and we anticipate continued growth.

Implementation and prospective evaluation of the Country Heart Attack Prevention model of care to improve attendance and completion of cardiac rehabilitation for patients with cardiovascular diseases living in rural Australia: a study protocol

INTRODUCTION

Despite extensive evidence of its benefits and recommendation by guidelines, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) remains highly underused with only 20%-50% of eligible patients participating. We aim to implement and evaluate the Country Heart Attack Prevention (CHAP) model of care to improve CR attendance and completion for rural and remote participants.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

CHAP will apply the model for large-scale knowledge translation to develop and implement a model of care to CR in rural Australia. Partnering with patients, clinicians and health service managers, we will codevelop new approaches and refine/expand existing ones to address known barriers to CR attendance. CHAP will codesign a web-based CR programme with patients expanding their choices to CR attendance. To increase referral rates, CHAP will promote endorsement of CR among clinicians and develop an electronic system that automatises referrals of in-hospital eligible patients to CR. A business model that includes reimbursement of CR delivered in primary care by Medicare will enable sustainable access to CR. To promote CR quality improvement, professional development interventions and an accreditation programme of CR services and programmes will be developed. To evaluate 12-month CR attendance/completion (primary outcome), clinical and cost-effectiveness (secondary outcomes) between patients exposed (n=1223) and not exposed (n=3669) to CHAP, we will apply a multidesign approach that encompasses a prospective cohort study, a pre-post study and a comprehensive economic evaluation.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

This study was approved by the Southern Adelaide Clinical Human Research Ethics Committee (HREC/20/SAC/78) and by the Department for Health and Wellbeing Human Research Ethics Committee (2021/HRE00270), which approved a waiver of informed consent. Findings and dissemination to patients and clinicians will be through a public website, online educational sessions and scientific publications. Deidentified data will be available from the corresponding author on reasonable request.

TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER

ACTRN12621000222842.

Effect of an educational program on physical activity in individuals undergoing their first percutaneous coronary intervention: A randomized clinical trial

BACKGROUND

Educational programs designed for specific populations to improve regular physical activity need to be tested.

OBJECTIVES

To evaluate the effectiveness of an educational program, when compared to usual care, on improving physical activity 5 to 7 months after hospital discharge in adult patients undergoing their first percutaneous coronary intervention.

METHODS

Randomized controlled trial with two groups: usual care (n = 56) and educational program (n = 53) interventions. Data on sociodemographic and clinical characteristics were collected and the Baecke-Habitual Physical Activity Questionnaire, Self-efficacy Scale for Physical Activity, and Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale were administered at baseline and follow-up. Participants in the educational program received an intervention based on Social Cognitive Theory, focused on physical activity, followed by three telephone calls. The usual care group received the hospital routine information. Unadjusted and adjusted differences between the two groups in mean score changes (with 95% confidence intervals [CI]) were calculated for all outcomes.

RESULTS

At follow-up, the educational program group showed higher mean ± standard deviation scores than the usual care group for practice of physical activity (7.94 ± 1.84 vs. 6.90 ± 1.89) and for self-efficacy (3.98 ± 3.75 vs. 2.52 ± 3.12). Adjusting for baseline outcome, the difference in mean change between groups was 0.89 (95% CI: 0.32, 1.46) for physical activity and 2.30 (95% CI: 1.12, 3.49) for self-efficacy. There were no statistical differences between groups in symptoms of anxiety and depression.

CONCLUSION

The educational program may be an effective intervention in increasing habitual physical activity and self-efficacy for physical activity in individuals with coronary artery disease.