Promoting cardiac rehabilitation program quality in low-resource settings: Needs assessment and evaluation of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's registry quality improvement supports

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) registries have the potential to support quality improvement (QImp). This study investigated the QImp needs of International CR Registry-participating programs and their evaluation of its' supports.

METHODS

ICRR offers comparative outcome dashboards and QImp sessions, among other features. In this qualitative study, ICRR data stewards from the 17 active on-boarded CR programs were invited to a focus group held in November 2023 via Teams; stewards not sufficiently-proficient in English were invited to provide written input. Deductive-thematic analysis using NVIVO was undertaken by 2 researchers; member-checking ensued.

RESULTS

Nine participated, and four provided input, from eight countries. Three themes emerged; saturation was achieved. First, QImp facilitators included training, institutional requirements, dedicated staff, resources in academic centres and ICRR features. Second, QImp barriers included staffing issues, the global nature of the ICRR, and structural challenges in low-resource settings. Finally, ICRR supports for QImp included didactic webinars, hearing from other programs, 1-1 support offered and assessing minimum Certification standards.

CONCLUSION

ICRR-participating programs are satisfied with QImp supports but encounter challenges, including related to language, staffing and other resources. CR registries should be leveraged and optimized to support CR programs to assess and improve their care quality.

Translation, cultural adaptation, and psychometric validation of the Provider Attitudes toward Cardiac Rehabilitation and Referral (PACRR-C) Scale in Simplified Chinese

BACKGROUND

The Provider Attitudes toward CR and Referral (PACRR) scale was translated into Simplified Chinese and psychometric validation ensued.

METHODS

Brislin's Translation Model was applied, with two independent forward translations followed by back-translation. Experts assessed the face, content and cross-cultural validity of items, and item analysis followed. For validation, 227 physicians from hospitals in 14 Chinese provinces completed the PACRR-C. Structural validity was assessed through exploratory and confirmatory factor analysis. Internal and split-half reliability were assessed.

RESULTS

Some items were rephrased and one item was deleted. The content validity index for the total scale was 0.965. The correlation coefficients between the 18 items and the total scale ranged between 0.28 and 0.76. Consistent with the English version, four factors were extracted (Cronbach's alpha ranged from 0.671-0.959) through the factor analysis, accounting for 71.21% of the total variance. Split-half reliability was 0.945. The greatest factors impacting physician's CR attitudes were inconvenience of the referral process (3.93 ± 0.65/5); lack of standard referral forms (3.92 ± 0.66), perceiving referral as the responsibility of another clinician (3.89 ± 0.67), and need for support in completing the referral form (3.89 ± 0.64).

CONCLUSIONS/SIGNIFICANCE

The reliability, as well as content, face, cross-cultural, and structural validity of the 18-item, 4-subscale PACRR-C, were supported.

Heart failure clinic inclusion and exclusion criteria: cross-sectional study of clinic's and referring provider's perspectives

OBJECTIVES

There are substantial variations in entry criteria for heart failure (HF) clinics, leading to variations in whom providers refer for these life-saving services. This study investigated actual versus ideal HF clinic inclusion or exclusion criteria and how that related to referring providers' perspectives of ideal criteria.

DESIGN, SETTING AND PARTICIPANTS

Two cross-sectional surveys were administered via research electronic data capture to clinic providers and referrers (eg, cardiologists, family physicians and nurse practitioners) across Canada.

MEASURES

Twenty-seven criteria selected based on the literature and HF guidelines were tested. Respondents were asked to list any additional criteria. The degree of agreement was assessed (eg, Kappa).

RESULTS

Responses were received from providers at 48 clinics (37.5% response rate). The most common actual inclusion criteria were newly diagnosed HF with reduced or preserved ejection fraction, New York Heart Association class IIIB/IV and recent hospitalisation (each endorsed by >74% of respondents). Exclusion criteria included congenital aetiology, intravenous inotropes, a lack of specialists, some non-cardiac comorbidities and logistical factors (eg, rurality and technology access). There was the greatest discordance between actual and ideal criteria for the following: inpatient at the same institution (κ=0.14), congenital heart disease, pulmonary hypertension or genetic cardiomyopathies (all κ=0.36). One-third (n=16) of clinics had changed criteria, often for non-clinical reasons. Seventy-three referring providers completed the survey. Criteria endorsed more by referrers than clinics included low blood pressure with a high heart rate, recurrent defibrillator shocks and intravenous inotropes-criteria also consistent with guidelines.

CONCLUSIONS

There is considerable agreement on the main clinic entry criteria, but given some discordance, two levels of clinics may be warranted. Publicising evidence-based criteria and applying them systematically at referral sources could support improved HF patient care journeys and outcomes.

Impact of vaccination education in cardiac rehabilitation on attitudes and knowledge

Clinical guidelines recommend influenza vaccination for cardiac patients, and COVID-19 vaccination is also beneficial given their increased risk. Patient education regarding vaccination was developed for cardiac rehabilitation (CR); impact on knowledge and attitudes were evaluated. A single-group pre-post design was applied at a Spanish CR program in early 2022. After baseline assessment, a nurse delivered the 40-minute group education. Knowledge and attitudes were re-assessed. Sixty-one (72%) of the 85 participants were vaccinated for influenza, and 40 (47%) for pneumococcus. Most participants perceived vaccines were important, and that the COVID-19 vaccine specifically was important, with three-quarters not influenced by vaccine myths/misinformation. The education intervention resulted in significant improvements in perceptions of the importance of vaccines (Hake's index 69%), understanding of myths (48%), knowledge of the different types of COVID vaccines (92%), and when they should be vaccinated. Vaccination rates are low despite their importance; while further research is needed, education in the CR setting could promote greater uptake.

Evidence-informed development of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation education

BACKGROUND

Despite their differential risk factor burden, context and often different forms of heart disease, cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs generally do not provide women with needed secondary prevention information specific to them.

OBJECTIVE

to co-design evidence-informed, theory-based comprehensive women-focused education, building from Health e-University's Cardiac College for CR.

METHODS

A multi-disciplinary, multi-stakeholder steering committee (N = 18) oversaw the four-phase development of the women-focused curriculum. Phase 1 involved a literature review on women's CR information needs and preferences, phase 2 a CR program needs assessment, phase 3 content development (including determining content and mode, assigning experts to create the content, plain language review and translation), and phase 4 will comprise evaluation and implementation. In phase 2, a focus group was conducted with Canadian CR providers; it was analyzed using Braun and Clarke's iterative approach.

RESULTS

Nineteen providers participated in the focus group, with four themes emerging: current status of education, challenges to delivering women-focused education, delivery modes and topical resources. Results were consistent with those from our related global survey, supporting saturation of themes. Co-designed educational materials included 19 videos. These were organized across 5 webpages in English and French, specific to tests and treatments, exercise, diet, psychosocial well-being, and self-management. Twelve corresponding session slide decks with notes for clinicians were created, to support program delivery in CR flexibly.

CONCLUSION

While further evaluation is underway, these open-access CR education resources will be disseminated for implementation, to support women in reducing their risk of cardiovascular sequelae.

Effectiveness of alternative vs traditional exercises on cardiac rehabilitation program utilization in women with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease: a systematic review protocol

OBJECTIVE

This review will evaluate the effectiveness of alternative vs traditional forms of exercise on cardiac rehabilitation program utilization and other outcomes in women with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease.

INTRODUCTION

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation programs improve health outcomes in women with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease. However, such programs are underutilized worldwide, particularly among women. Some women perceive traditional gym-based exercise in cardiac rehabilitation programs (eg, typically treadmills, cycle ergometers, traditional resistance training) to be excessively rigorous and unpleasant, resulting in diminished participation and completion. Alternative forms of exercise such as yoga, tai chi, qi gong, or Pilates may be more enjoyable and motivating exercise options for women, enhancing engagement in rehabilitation programs. However, the effectiveness of these alternative exercises in improving program utilization is still inconsistent and needs to be systematically evaluated and synthesized.

INCLUSION CRITERIA

This review will focus on randomized controlled trials of studies measuring the effectiveness of alternative vs traditional forms of exercise on cardiac rehabilitation program utilization as well as clinical, physiological, or patient-reported outcomes in women with or at high risk of cardiovascular disease.

METHODS

The review will follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness. Databases including MEDLINE (Ovid), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Cochrane CENTRAL, Embase (Ovid), Emcare (Ovid), Scopus, Web of Science, LILACS, and PsycINFO (Ovid) will be searched. Two independent reviewers will screen articles and then extract and synthesize data. Methodological quality will be assessed using JBI's standardized instruments. GRADE will be used to determine the certainty of evidence.

REVIEW REGISTRATION

PROSPERO CRD42022354996.

Women-Focused Cardiac Rehabilitation Delivery Around the World and Program Enablers to Support Broader Implementation

Background

Women are less likely than men to use cardiac rehabilitation (CR); thus, women-focused (W-F) CR was developed. Implementation of W-F CR globally was investigated, as well as barriers and enablers to its delivery.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, a survey was administered to CR programs via Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) from May to July, 2023. Potential respondents were identified via the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's network.

Results

A total of 223 responses were received from 52 of 111 countries (46.8% country response rate) in the world that have any CR, across all 6 World Health Organization regions. Thirty-three programs (14.8%) from 30 countries reported offering any W-F programming. Programs commonly did offer elements preferred by women and recommended, namely, the following: patient choice of session time (n = 151; 70.6%); invitations for informal care providers and/or partners to attend sessions (n = 121; 57.1%); CR staff that have expertise in women and heart diseases (n = 112; 53.3%); separate changerooms for women (n = 38; 52.8%); and discussion of CR referral with patients (n = 112; 52.1%). Main barriers to delivery of W-F exercise were physical resources (n = 33; 14.8%), space (n = 30; 13.5%), and staff time (n = 26; 11.7%) and expertise (n = 33; 10.3%). Main barriers to delivery of W-F education were human resources (n = 114; 51.1%), educational resources (n = 26; 11.7%), and expertise in the content (n = 74; 33.2%). Enablers of W-F education delivery were availability of materials, in multiple modalities, as well as educated staff and financial resources.

Conclusions

Despite the benefits, W-F CR is not commonly offered globally. Considering the barriers and enablers identified, the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation is developing resources to expand delivery.

The Canadian Women's Heart Health Alliance ATLAS on the Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Cardiovascular Disease in Women - Chapter 9: Summary of Current Status, Challenges, Opportunities, and Recommendations

This final chapter of the Canadian Women's Heart Health Alliance "ATLAS on the Epidemiology, Diagnosis, and Management of Cardiovascular Disease in Women" presents ATLAS highlights from the perspective of current status, challenges, and opportunities in cardiovascular care for women. We conclude with 12 specific recommendations for actionable next steps to further the existing progress that has been made in addressing these knowledge gaps by tackling the remaining outstanding disparities in women's cardiovascular care, with the goal to improve outcomes for women in Canada.

Hybrid Cardiac Rehabilitation Program in a Low-Resource Setting: A Randomized Clinical Trial

Importance

While effective, cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) as traditionally delivered is not well implemented in lower-resource settings.

Objective

To test the noninferiority of hybrid CR compared with traditional CR in terms of cardiovascular events.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This pragmatic, multicenter, parallel arm, open-label randomized clinical trial (the Hybrid Cardiac Rehabilitation Trial [HYCARET]) with blinded outcome assessment was conducted at 6 referral centers in Chile. Adults aged 18 years or older who had a cardiovascular event or procedure, no contraindications to exercise, and access to a mobile telephone were eligible and recruited between April 1, 2019, and March 15, 2020, with follow-up until July 29, 2021.

Interventions

Participants were randomized 1:1 in permuted blocks to the experimental arm, which received 10 center-based supervised exercise sessions plus counseling in 4 to 6 weeks and then were supported at home via telephone calls and text messages through weeks 8 to 12, or the control arm, which received the standard CR of 18 to 22 sessions with exercises and education in 8 to 12 weeks.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was cardiovascular events or mortality. Secondary outcomes were quality of life, return to work, and lifestyle behaviors measured with validated questionnaires; muscle strength and functional capacity, measured through physical tests; and program adherence and exercise-related adverse events, assessed using checklists.

Results

A total of 191 participants were included (mean [SD] age, 58.74 [9.80] years; 145 [75.92%] male); 93 were assigned to hybrid CR and 98 to standard CR. At 1 year, events had occurred in 5 unique participants in the hybrid CR group (5.38%) and 9 in the standard CR group (9.18%). In the intention-to-treat analysis, the hybrid CR group had 3.80% (95% CI, -11.13% to 3.52%) fewer cardiovascular events than the standard CR group, and relative risk was 0.59 (95% CI, 0.20-1.68) for the primary outcome. In the per-protocol analysis at different levels of adherence to the intervention, all 95% CIs crossed the noninferiority boundary (eg, 20% adherence: absolute risk difference, -0.35% [95% CI, -7.56% to 6.85%]; 80% adherence: absolute risk difference, 3.30% [95% CI, -3.70% to 10.31%]). No between-group differences were found for secondary outcomes except adherence to supervised CR sessions (79.14% [736 of 930 supervised sessions] in the hybrid CR group vs 61.46% [1201 of 1954 sessions] in the standard CR group).

Conclusions and Relevance

The results suggest that a hybrid CR program is noninferior to standard center-based CR in a low-resource setting, primarily in terms of recurrent cardiovascular events and potentially in terms of intermediate outcomes. Hybrid CR may induce superior adherence to supervised exercise. Clinical factors and patient preferences should inform CR model allocation.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03881150.

Factors Affecting Healthcare Provider Referral to Heart Function Clinics: A Mixed-Methods Study

BACKGROUND

Heart failure (HF) care providers are gatekeepers for patients to appropriately access lifesaving HF clinics.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of this study was to investigate referring providers' perceptions regarding referral to HF clinics, including the impact of provider specialty and the coronavirus disease pandemic.

METHODS

An exploratory, sequential design was used in this mixed-methods study. For the qualitative stage, semistructured interviews were performed with a purposive sample of HF providers eligible to refer (ie, nurse practitioners, cardiologists, internists, primary care and emergency medicine physicians) in Ontario. Interviews were conducted via Microsoft Teams. Transcripts were analyzed concurrently by 2 researchers independently using NVivo, using a deductive-thematic approach. Then, a cross-sectional survey of similar providers across Canada was undertaken via REDCap (Research Electronic Data Capture), using an adapted version of the Provider Attitudes toward Cardiac Rehabilitation and Referral scale.

RESULTS

Saturation was achieved upon interviewing 7 providers. Four themes arose: knowledge about clinics and their characteristics, providers' clinical expertise, communication and relationship with their patients, and clinic referral process and care continuity. Seventy-three providers completed the survey. The major negative factors affecting referral were skepticism regarding clinic benefit (4.1 ± 0.9/5), a bad patient experience and believing they are better equipped to manage the patient (both 3.9). Cardiologists more strongly endorsed clarity of referral criteria, referral as normative and within-practice referral supports as supporting appropriate referral versus other professionals ( P s < .02), among other differences. One-third (n = 13) reported the pandemic impacted their referral practices (eg, limits to in-person care, patient concerns).

CONCLUSION

Although there are some legitimate barriers to appropriate clinic referral, greater provider education and support could facilitate optimal patient access.

Development and Evaluation of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) Program Certification for Low-Resource Settings

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a proven model of secondary prevention, but new sites, providing quality care, are needed in low-resource settings. This study (1) described the development of International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's (ICCPR) Program Certification and (2a) tested its implementation, considering (b) appropriateness of quality standards for these settings.

Methods

The Steering Committee finalized 13 standards, requiring 70% be met. They are assessed initially through International CR Registry (ICRR) program survey and patient data; if Certification appears possible, a two-hour virtual site assessment is arranged to corroborate. Standard operating procedures for Assessor training were developed. A multi-method pilot study was then undertaken with a quantitative (description of quality indicators) and qualitative (focus groups on MS Teams) component. ICRR sites with post-program data by April 2022 were invited to participate. Two team members independently analyzed focus group transcripts, using a deductive-thematic approach with NVIVO.

Results

Five CR programs from the Eastern Mediterranean, South-East Asian and American regions participated. Upon application, with some data cleaning, initially four programs were eligible to proceed to virtual site assessment. Ultimately, all five programs were certified, each meeting a minimum of 12/13 standards (peak MET increase and program completion rate were not met by some centres). Four themes resulted from the two focus groups of 13 site data stewards: motivation and benefits (eg, international recognition, additional program resources), logistics (eg, communication, cost, site visit process), the standards and their assessment (eg, balance of rigor and feasibility), and suggestions for improvement (eg, website).

Conclusion

ICCPR's Program Certification has been demonstrated to be feasible, rigorous, and acceptable. Standards are attainable in low-resource settings. Certified programs reap benefits including additional resources. This first international Certification is suitable for low-resource settings, to complement that from the American and European CR Societies.

Women's Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers: Results of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's First Global Assessment

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are underutilized globally, especially by women. In this study we investigated sex differences in CR barriers across all world regions, to our knowledge for the first time, the characteristics associated with greater barriers in women, and women's greatest barriers according to enrollment status.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, the English, Simplified Chinese, Arabic, Portuguese, or Korean versions of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale was administered to CR-indicated patients globally via Qualtrics from October 2021 to March 2023. Members of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation community facilitated participant recruitment. Mitigation strategies were provided and rated.

RESULTS

Participants were 2163 patients from 16 countries across all 6 World Health Organization regions; 916 (42.3%) were women. Women did not report significantly greater total barriers overall, but did in 2 regions (Americas, Western Pacific) and men in 1 (Eastern Mediterranean; all P < 0.001). Women's barriers were greatest in the Western Pacific (2.6 ± 0.4/5) and South East Asian (2.5 ± 0.9) regions (P < 0.001), with lack of CR awareness as the greatest barrier in both. Women who were unemployed reported significantly greater barriers than those not (P < 0.001). Among nonenrolled referred women, the greatest barriers were not knowing about CR, not being contacted by the program, cost, and finding exercise tiring or painful. Among enrolled women, the greatest barriers to session adherence were distance, transportation, and family responsibilities. Mitigation strategies were rated as very helpful (4.2 ± 0.7/5).

CONCLUSIONS

CR barriers-men's and women's-vary significantly according to region, necessitating tailored approaches to mitigation. Efforts should be made to mitigate unemployed women's barriers in particular.

Translation, Cultural Adaptation, and Validation of a Korean Version of the Information Needs in Cardiac Rehabilitation Scale

OBJECTIVE

: To translate and culturally adapt the Information Needs in Cardiac Rehabilitation (INCR) questionnaire into Korean and perform psychometric validation.

METHODS

: The original English version of the INCR, in which patients are asked to rate the importance of 55 topics, was translated into Korean (INCR-K) and culturally adapted. The INCR-K was tested on 101 cardiac rehabilitation (CR) participants at Kangwon National University Hospital and Seoul National University Bundang Hospital in Korea. Structural validity was assessed using principal component analysis, and Cronbach's alpha of the areas was computed. Criterion validity was assessed by comparing information needs according to CR duration and knowledge sufficiency according to receipt of education. Half of the participants were randomly selected for 1 month of re-testing to assess their responsiveness.

RESULTS

: Following cognitive debriefing, the number of items was reduced to 41 and ratings were added to assess participants' sufficient knowledge of each item. The INCR-K structure comprised eight areas, each with sufficient internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha>0.7). Criterion validity was supported by significant differences in mean INCR-K scores based on CR duration and knowledge sufficiency ratings according to receipt of education (p<0.05). Information needs and knowledge sufficiency ratings increased after 1 month of CR, thus supporting responsiveness (p<0.05).

CONCLUSION

: The INCR-K demonstrated adequate face, content, cross-cultural, structural, and criterion validities, internal consistency, and responsiveness. Information needs changed with CR, such that multiple assessments of information needs may be warranted as rehabilitation progresses to facilitate patient-centered education.

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.

Pilot testing of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Registry

The International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation developed an International Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) Registry (ICRR) to support CR programs in low-resource settings to optimize care provision and patient outcomes. This study assessed implementation of the ICRR, site data steward experience with on-boarding and data entry, and patient acceptability. Multimethod observational pilot involves (I) analysis of ICRR data from three centers (Iran, Pakistan, and Qatar) from inception to May 2022, (II) focus group with on-boarded site data stewards (also from Mexico and India), and (III) semistructured interviews with participating patients. Five hundred sixty-seven patients were entered. Based on volumes at each program, 85.6% of patients were entered in ICRR. 99.3% patients approached consented to participate. The average time to enter data at pre- and follow-up assessments by source was 6.8-12.6 min. Of 22 variables preprogram, completion was 89.5%. Among patients with any follow-up data, of four program-reported variables, completion was 99.0% in program completers and 51.5% in none; of 10 patient-reported variables, completion was 97.0% in program completers and 84.8% in none. The proportion of patients with any follow-up data was 84.8% in program completers, with 43.6% of noncompleters having any data entered other than completion status. Twelve data stewards participated in the focus group. Main themes were valuable on-boarding process, data entry, process of engaging patients, and benefits of participation. Thirteen patients were interviewed. Themes were good understanding of the registry, positive experience providing data, and value of lay summary and eagerness for annual assessment. Feasibility and data quality of ICRR were demonstrated.

Sex differences in cardiac rehabilitation barriers among non-enrollees in the context of lower gender equality: a cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Despite the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation (CR), it remains under-utilized, particularly by women. This study compared CR barriers between non-enrolling men and women in Iran, which has among the lowest gender equality globally.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional study, CR barriers were assessed via phone interview in phase II non-attenders from March 2017 to February 2018 with the Persian version of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS-P). T-tests were used to compare scores, with each of 18 barriers scored out of 5, between men and women.

RESULTS

357 (33.9%) of the sample of 1053 were women, and they were older, less educated and less often employed than men. Total mean CRBS scores were significantly greater in women (2.37 ± 0.37) than men (2.29 ± 0.35; effect size[ES] = 0.08, confidence interval[CI]: 0.03-0.13; p < 0.001). The top CR barriers among women were cost (3.35; ES = 0.40, CI:0.23-0.56; P < 0.001), transportation problems (3.24; ES = 0.41, CI:0.25-0.58; P < 0.001), distance (3.21; ES = 0.31, CI:0.15-0.48; P < 0.001), comorbidities (2.97; ES = 0.49, CI:0.34-0.64; P < 0.001), low energy (2.41; ES = 0.29, CI:0.18-0.41; P < 0.001), finding exercise as tiring or painful (2.22; ES = 0.11, CI:0.02-0.21; P = 0.018), and older age (2.27; ES = 0.18, CI:0.07-0.28; P = 0.001). Men rated "already exercise at home or in community" (2.69; ES = 0.23, CI:0.1-0.36; P = 0.001), time constraints (2.18; ES = 0.15, CI:0.07-0.23; P < 0.001) and work responsibilities (2.24; ES = 0.16, CI:0.07-0.25; P = 0.001) as greater CR barriers than women.

CONCLUSION

Women had greater barriers to CR participation than men. CR programs should be modified to address women's needs. Home-based CR tailored to women's exercise needs and preferences should be considered.

Evaluation of counselling materials for hybrid cardiac rehabilitation in a low-resource setting: Perceptions of patients and providers

OBJECTIVE

This study evaluated the usefulness of a booklet as support material for counseling focused on self-efficacy and therapist interaction in the course of counseling in a hybrid CR program (i.e., supervised and unsupervised sessions) developed for low-resource settings.

METHODS

Counseling material was developed by a multidisciplinary team, with patient input. Using multi-methods, first input from patients from six centers in Chile was sought through a telephone survey (cross-sectional). Second, input from physiotherapists delivering the intervention at all centres was solicited qualitatively through a focus group on Zoom. Content analysis was performed using a deductive-thematic approach.

RESULTS

Seventy-one patients were included. All (100 %) participants responded that the materials were easy to understand, contained suggestions applicable to daily life, captured their attention and was useful for future questions. The booklet overall was rated 6.7 ± 0.6/7 %, and 98.2 % were satisfied with the counselling. Overall themes from the six deliverers related to the CR intervention (e.g., well manualized protocols for counselling), the deliverer (e.g., expertise to deliver) and patients (e.g., found information useful).

CONCLUSION

The usefulness of the counseling together with the supporting booklet was established by patients and delivering professionals.

PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS

Thus, with some final refinement, this resource can be disseminated for use by other Spanish CR programs.

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the Arabic Version of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS-A) with Strategies to Mitigate Barriers

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) utilization is low, particularly in Arabic-speaking countries. This study aimed to translate and psychometrically validate the CR Barriers Scale in Arabic (CRBS-A), as well as strategies to mitigate them. The CRBS was translated by two bilingual health professionals independently, followed by back-translation. Next, 19 healthcare providers, followed by 19 patients rated the face and content validity (CV) of the pre-final versions, providing input to improve cross-cultural applicability. Then, 207 patients from Saudi Arabia and Jordan completed the CRBS-A, and factor structure, internal consistency, construct, and criterion validity were assessed. Helpfulness of mitigation strategies was also assessed. For experts, item and scale CV indices were 0.8-1.0 and 0.9, respectively. For patients, item clarity and mitigation helpfulness scores were 4.5 ± 0.1 and 4.3 ± 0.1/5, respectively. Minor edits were made. For the test of structural validity, four factors were extracted: time conflicts/lack of perceived need and excuses; preference to self-manage; logistical problems; and health system issues and comorbidities. Total CRBS-A α was 0.90. Construct validity was supported by a trend for an association of total CRBS with financial insecurity regarding healthcare. Total CRBS-A scores were significantly lower in patients who were referred to CR (2.8 ± 0.6) vs. those who were not (3.6 ± 0.8), confirming criterion validity (p = 0.04). Mitigation strategies were considered very helpful (mean = 4.2 ± 0.8/5). The CRBS-A is reliable and valid. It can support identification of top barriers to CR participation at multiple levels, and then strategies for mitigating them can be implemented.

First report of the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation's Registry (ICRR)

OBJECTIVES

Cardiac rehabilitation - programs comprehensively delivering outpatient secondary prevention - is under-available and under-studied in the resource-poor settings where it is needed most. This report summarizes the governance, participating sites, patient characteristics and outcomes, as well as knowledge translation activities during first year of operation of ICCPR's registry, namely the International Cardiac Rehab Registry.

METHODS

A pilot study was undertaken with five centers, demonstrating feasibility, satisfaction with the on-boarding processes, as well as data quality.

RESULTS

Fourteen centers have been engaged from all regions but Europe; Data have been entered on >1000 patients (18.1% female; mean age = 57.6), of whom 62.4% completed their programs and 19.9% dropped out for work or clinical reasons. Post-program, completers had significantly better work status, functional capacity, medication adherence, physical activity levels, diet, as well as lower tobacco use than non-completers (all p < 0.05). A site Certification program was developed and piloted, with five centers now recognized for their quality, given they met over 70% of the 13 internationally agreed standards based on Registry data and a virtual site assessment.

CONCLUSION

Annual assessments have started. Quality improvement activities will soon be underway. We continue to invite new programs, supporting development in resource-poor settings to the benefit of patients served.

Impact of omicron wave and associated control measures in Shanghai on health management and psychosocial well-being of patients with chronic conditions

The objective of this cross-sectional study was to investigate health management, well-being, and pandemic-related perspectives of chronic disease patients in the context of stringent measures, and associated correlates. A self-report survey was administered during the Omicron wave lockdown in Shanghai, China. Items from the Somatic Symptom Scale (SSS) and Symptom Checklist-90 were administered, as well as pandemic-related items. Overall, 1,775 patients (mostly married females with hypertension) were recruited through a community family physician group. Mean SSS scores were 36.1 ± 10.5/80, with 41.5% scoring in the elevated range (i.e., >36). In an adjusted model, being female, diagnosis of coronary artery disease and arrhythmia, perceived impact of pandemic on life, health condition, change to exercise routine, tolerance of control measures, as well as perception of future and control measures were significantly associated with greater distress. One-quarter perceived the pandemic had a permanent impact on their life, and 44.1% perceived at least a minor impact. One-third discontinued exercise due to the pandemic. While 47.6% stocked up on their medications before the lockdown, their supply was only enough for two weeks; 17.5% of participants discontinued use. Chief among their fears were inability to access healthcare (83.2%), and what they stated they most needed to manage their condition was medication access (65.6%). Since 2020 when we assessed a similar cohort, distress and perceived impact of the pandemic have worsened. Greater access to cardiac rehabilitation in China could address these issues.

Translation, Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Psychometric Validation of the Greek Version of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS-GR): What Are the Barriers in South-East Europe?

Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) is a secondary prevention intervention proven to improve quality of life, yet with low participation. The Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (CRBS) was developed to assess multi-level barriers to participation. This study aimed at the translation, and cross-cultural adaptation of the CRBS into the Greek language (CRBS-GR), followed by psychometric validation. Some 110 post-angioplasty patients with coronary artery disease (88.2% men, age 65.3 ± 10.2 years) answered the CRBS-GR. Factor analysis was performed to obtain the CRBS-GR subscales/factors. The internal consistency and 3-week test-retest reliability was evaluated using Cronbach's alpha (α) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC), respectively. Construct validity was tested via convergent and divergent validity. Concurrent validity was assessed with the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS). Translation and adaptation resulted in 21 items similar to the original version. Face validity and acceptability were supported. Construct validity assessment revealed four subscales/factors, with acceptable overall reliability (α = 0.70) and subscale internal consistency for all but one factor (α range = 0.56-0.74). The 3-week test-retest reliability was 0.96. Concurrent validity assessment demonstrated a small to moderate correlation of the CRBS-GR with the HADS. The greatest barriers were the distance from the rehabilitation center, the costs, the lack of information about CR, and already exercising at home. The CRBS-GR is a reliable and valid tool for identifying CR barriers among Greek-speaking patients.

Technology-based Comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Therapy (TaCT) for women with cardiovascular disease in a middle-income setting: A randomized controlled trial protocol

Women are underrepresented in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) despite the benefits, and this is exacerbated in lower-resource settings where CR is insufficiently available. In this randomized controlled trial, the effectiveness of the Technology-based Comprehensive Cardiac Rehabilitation Therapy (TaCT) electronic cardiac rehabilitation (eCR) intervention on functional capacity, risk factors, quality of life, heart-health behaviors, symptoms, and morbidity will be tested among women with CVD in a middle-income country. Following a pilot study, a single-center, single-blinded, 2 parallel-arm (1:1 SNOSE) superiority trial comparing an eCR intervention (TaCT) to usual care, with assessments pre-intervention and at 3 and 6 months will be undertaken. One hundred adult women will be recruited. Permuted block (size 10) randomization will be applied. The 6-month intervention comprises an app, website, SMS texts with generic heart-health management advice, and bi-weekly 1:1 telephone calls with a nurse trainee. Individualized exercise prescriptions will be developed based on an Incremental Shuttle Walk Test (primary outcome) and dietary plans based on 24 h dietary recall. A yoga/relaxation video will be provided via WhatsApp, along with tobacco cessation support and a moderated group chat. At 3 months, intervention engagement and acceptability will be assessed. Analyses will be conducted based on intent-to-treat. If results of this novel trial of women-focused eCR in a middle-income country demonstrate clinically-significant increases in functional capacity, this could represent an important development for the field considering this would be an important outcome for women and would translate to lower mortality.

Availability and nature of cardiac rehabilitation by province in Iran: A 2018 update of ICCPR's global audit

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is scantly available in Iran, although it is the cost-benefit strategy in cardiac patients, It has not been established how CR is delivered within Iran. This study aimed to determine: (a) availability, density and unmet need for CR, and (b) nature of CR services in Iran by province.

Materials and Methods

In this cross-sectional sub-study of the global CR audit, program availability was determined through cardiovascular networks. An online survey was then disseminated to these programs in June 2016-2017 which assessed capacity and characteristics; a paper-based survey was disseminated in 2018 to nonresponding and any new programs. CR density and need was computed based on annual incidence of acute myocardial infarction (AMI) in each province.

Results

Of the 31 provinces, 12 (38.7%) had CR services. There were 30 programs nationally, all in capital cities; of these, programs in 9 (75.0%) provinces, specifically 22 (73.3%) programs, participated. The national CR density is 1 spot per 7 incident AMI patients/year. Unmet need is greatest in Khuzestan, Tehran and west Azerbaijan, with 44,816 more spots needed/year. Most programs assessed cardiovascular risk factors, and offered comprehensive services, delivered by a multi-disciplinary team, comprised chiefly of nurses, dietitians and cardiologists. Median dose is 14 sessions/program in supervised programs. A third of programs offered home-based services.

Conclusion

Where programs do exist in IRAN, they are generally delivered in accordance with guidelines. Therefore, we must increase capacity in CR services in all provinces to improve secondary prevention services.

Older Adults' Attitudes Regarding COVID-19 and Associated Infection Control Measures in Shanghai and Impact on Well-Being

This cross-sectional study investigated health management, well-being, and pandemic-related perspectives in Shanghainese adults ≥50 years at the early stages of COVID-19 using a self-report survey in March−April, 2020. Items from the SSS, PHQ-9 and GAD-7 were administered. A total of 1181 primarily married, retired females participated. Many participants had hypertension (44.1%), coronary artery disease (CAD; 17.8%), and diabetes (14.5%). While most (n = 868, 73.5%) were strictly following control measures and perceived they could tolerate >6 months (n = 555, 47.0%) and were optimistic (n = 969, 82.0%). A total of 52 (8.2%) of those with any condition and 19 (3.5%) of those without a condition reported that the pandemic was impacting their health. Somatic symptoms were high (29.4 ± 7.1/36), with sleep/cognitive symptoms highest. Totals of 20.2% and 17.0% of respondents had elevated depressive and anxious symptoms, respectively; greater distress was associated with lower income (p = 0.018), having hypertension (p = 0.001) and CAD (p < 0.001), negative perceptions of global COVID-19 control (p = 0.004), COVID-19 spread (p < 0.001), impact on life/health (p < 0.001), compliance with control measures (p < 0.001), and the toleration of shorter time control measures (p < 0.001) in adjusted analyses. In conclusion, during the initial COVID-19 outbreak, most older adults were optimistic/resilient regarding the epidemic and control measures. However, the distress of older adults was not trivial, particularly in those with health issues.

Women-Focused Cardiovascular Rehabilitation: An International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation Clinical Practice Guideline

Women-focused cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR; phase II) aims to better engage women, and might result in better quality of life than traditional programs. This first clinical practice guideline by the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) provides guidance on how to deliver women-focused programming. The writing panel comprised experts with diverse geographic representation, including multidisciplinary health care providers, a policy-maker, and patient partners. The guideline was developed in accordance with Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II and the Reporting Items for practice Guidelines in HealTh care (RIGHT). Initial recommendations were on the basis of a meta-analysis. These were circulated to a Delphi panel (comprised of corresponding authors from review articles and of programs delivering women-focused CR identified through ICCPR's audit; N = 76), who were asked to rate each on a 7-point Likert scale in terms of impact and implementability (higher scores positive). A Web call was convened to achieve consensus; 15 panelists confirmed strength of revised recommendations (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation [GRADE]). The draft underwent external review from CR societies internationally and was posted for public comment. The 14 drafted recommendations related to referral (systematic, encouragement), setting (model choice, privacy, staffing), and delivery (exercise mode, psychosocial, education, self-management empowerment). Nineteen (25.0%) survey responses were received. For all but 1 recommendation, ≥ 75% voted to include; implementability ratings were < 5/7 for 4 recommendations, but only 1 for effect. Ultimately 1 recommendation was excluded, 1 separated into 2 and all revised (2 substantively); 1 recommendation was added. Overall, certainty of evidence for the final recommendations was low to moderate, and strength mostly strong. These recommendations and associated tools can support all programs to feasibly offer some women-focused programming.

Editor's Choice - Effect of Physical Activity and Tobacco Use on Mortality and Morbidity in Patients with Peripheral Arterial Disease After Revascularisation: A Korean Nationwide Population Based Cohort Study

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the effects of physical activity (PA) and tobacco use on adverse clinical outcomes after revascularisation for peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in the Western Pacific region, where PAD cases and tobacco use are among the highest in the world.

METHODS

This was a retrospective cohort study using the Korean National Health Insurance Service (NHIS) database and included patients who had received revascularisation for PAD between 2010 and 2015. They were categorised as active or inactive based on the number of days per week they engaged in PA and as current or non-tobacco users (self report). The primary outcome was all cause mortality. Secondary outcomes included major adverse outcome (a composite of all cause mortality, myocardial infarction, and stroke) and major adverse limb event (MALE, a composite of amputation and recurrent revascularisation).

RESULTS

The relatively healthy cohort comprised 8 324 patients (mean age 64.7 years; 76.9% male) following revascularisation for PAD. Among them, 32.7% were inactive and 26.4% were tobacco users. Active patients had better outcomes than inactive patients (all cause mortality adjusted hazard ratio [adjHR] 0.766; 95% CI 0.685 - 0.855, major adverse outcome adjHR 0.795; 95% CI 0.719 - 0.878, MALE adjHR 0.858; 95% CI 0.773 - 0.953). Tobacco users had poorer outcomes than non-users (all cause mortality adjHR 1.279; 95% CI 1.124 - 1.456, major adverse outcome adjHR 1.263; 95% CI 1.124 - 1.418, MALE adjHR 1.291; 95% CI 1.143 - 1.458).

CONCLUSION

Even after receiving revascularisation for PAD, a sizable proportion of patients were physically inactive and used tobacco, leading to adverse clinical outcomes such as death, cardiovascular morbidity, and amputation in Korea. These modifiable risk factors should be addressed systematically, and a comprehensive approach including supervised exercise programmes and tobacco cessation is needed in patients with PAD.

Controlled pilot test of a translated cardiac rehabilitation education curriculum in percutaneous coronary intervention patients in a middle-income country delivered using WeChat: acceptability, engagement, satisfaction and preliminary outcomes

In China, despite the rapid increase in percutaneous coronary interventions (PCIs), cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is just burgeoning, leaving a need for comprehensive evidence-based education curricula. This pilot study assessed the acceptability of Simplified Chinese CR education delivered via booklets and videos on WeChat asynchronously and the impact on improving knowledge, risk factors, health behaviors and quality of life. In this pre-post, controlled, observational study, interested PCI patients received the 12-week intervention or usual care and WeChat without education. Participants completed validated surveys, including the Coronary Artery Disease Education-Questionnaire and Self-Management Scale. Acceptability (14 Likert-type items), engagement (minutes per week) and satisfaction were assessed in intervention participants. Ninety-six patients consented to participate (n = 49 intervention), of which 66 (68.8%) completed the follow-up assessments. Twenty-seven (77.1%) retained intervention participants engaged with the materials, rating content as highly acceptable (all means ≥4/5) and satisfactory (2.19 ± 0.48/3); those engaging more with the intervention were significantly more satisfied (P = 0.03). While participants in both groups achieved some improvements, only intervention participants had significant increases in disease-related knowledge, reductions in body mass index and triglycerides, as well as improvements in diet (all P < 0.05). In this first study validating the recently translated CR patient education intervention, acceptability and benefits have been supported.

Qualitative study measuring the usability of the International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry

OBJECTIVE

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a comprehensive model of secondary preventive care. There is a wide variety in implementation characteristics globally, and hence quality control is paramount. Thus, the International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation was urged to develop a CR registry. The purpose of this study was to test the perceived usability of the International Cardiac Rehabilitation Registry (ICRR) to optimise it.

DESIGN

This was a qualitative study, comprising virtual usability tests using a think-aloud method to elicit feedback on the ICRR, while end-users were entering patient data, followed by semistructured interviews.

SETTING

Ultimately, 12 tests were conducted with CR staff (67% female) in low-resource settings from a variety of disciplines in all regions of the world but Europe before saturation was achieved.

PRIMARY OUTCOME MEASURE

Participants completed the System Usability Scale. Interviews were transcribed verbatim except to preserve anonymity, and coded using NVIVO by two researchers independently. The Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology 2 informed analysis.

RESULTS

The ICRR was established as easy to use, relevant, efficient, with easy learnability, operability, perceived usefulness, positive perceptions of output quality and high end-user satisfaction. System usability was 83.75, or 'excellent' and rated 'A'. Four major themes were deduced from the interviews: (1) ease of approvals, adoption and implementation; (2) benefits for programmes, (3) variables and their definitions, as well as (4) patient report and follow-up assessment. Based on participant observation and utterances, suggestions for changes to the ICRR were implemented, including to the programme survey, on-boarding processes, navigational instructions, inclusion of programme logos, direction on handling unavailable data and optimising data completeness, as well as policies for authorship and programme certification.

CONCLUSIONS

With usability of the ICRR optimised, pilot testing shall ensue.

Trends in cardiac rehabilitation enrollment post-coronary artery bypass grafting upon implementation of automatic referral in Southeast Asia: A retrospective cohort study

Introduction: Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an effective but underutilized intervention. Strategies have been identified to increase its use, but there is paucity of data testing them in low-resource settings. We sought to determine the effect of automatic referral post-coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery on CR enrollment.

Methods: This is a retrospective cohort study assessing cardiac patients referred to CR at a tertiary center in Southeast Asia from 2013 to 2019. The paper-based pathway was introduced at the end of 2012. The checklist with automatic CR referral on the third day post-operation prompted a nurse to educate the patient about CR, initiate phase 1 and encourage enrollment in phase 2. Patients who were not eligible for the pathway for administrative or clinical reasons were referred at the discretion of the attending physician (i.e., usual care). Enrollment was defined as attendance at≥1 CR visit.

Results: Of 4792 patients referred during the study period, 394 enrolled in CR. Significantly more patients referred automatically enrolled compared to usual care (225 [11.8%] vs. 169 [5.8%]; OR=2.2, 95% CI=1.8-2.7), with increases up to 23.4% enrollment in 2014 (vs. average enrollment rate of 5.9% under usual referral). Patients who enrolled following automatic referral were significantly younger and more often employed (both P<0.001); no other differences were observed.

Conclusion: In a lower-resource, Southeast Asian setting, automatic CR referral is associated with over two times greater enrollment in phase 2 CR, although efforts to maintain this effect are required.

Impacts of two behavior change interventions on determinants of medication adherence: process evaluation applying the health action process approach and habit theory alongside a randomized controlled trial

Investigating the mechanisms of behavior change interventions provides a more fulsome understanding of how and why interventions work (or don't work). We assessed mechanisms of two interventions (mailouts alone, and mailouts plus telephone support, informed by the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) and Habit Theory), designed to increase medication adherence after myocardial infarction. We conducted a process evaluation alongside a pragmatic trial. Medication adherence was assessed via self-report at 12-months in the trial, and participants in all trial groups were invited to contemporaneously complete an additional questionnaire assessing targeted mechanisms (HAPA constructs and automaticity). We used multiple regression-based mediation models to investigate indirect effects. Of 589 respondents, 497 were analyzed (92 excluded due to missing data). Mailouts plus telephone support had statistically significant but small effects on intention, social support, action planning, coping planning, and automaticity. There were no indirect effects of interventions on medication adherence via these constructs. Therefore, while this intervention led to changes in proposed mechanisms, these changes were not great enough to lead to behavior change. Refinements (and subsequent evaluation) of the interventions are warranted, and our findings indicate that this could involve offering more intensive support to form plans and identify cues for taking medications, in addition to providing physical supports to encourage self-monitoring, feedback, and habit formation. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT02382731.

Building Capacity Through ICCPR Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Foundations Certification (CRFC): EVALUATION OF REACH, BARRIERS, AND IMPACT

PURPOSE

The International Council of Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (ICCPR) developed an online Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Foundations Certification (CRFC; https://globalcardiacrehab.com/Certification) in October 2017, to build cardiac rehabilitation (CR) delivery capacity in low-resource settings based on their guidelines. Herein we evaluate its reach globally, barriers to its completion, as well as satisfaction and impact of the course among those completing it.

METHODS

The country of origin of all applicants was tallied. An online survey was developed for learners who completed the CRFC (completers), and for those who applied but did not yet complete the program (noncompleters), administered using Google Forms.

RESULTS

With regard to reach, 236 applications were received from 23/203 (11%) countries in the world; 51 (22%) were from low- or middle-income countries. A total of 130 (55%) have completed the CRFC; mean scores on the final examination were 88.3 ± 7.1%, with no difference by country income classification (P= .052). Sixteen (22%) noncompleters and 37 (34%) completers responded to the survey. Barriers reported by noncompleters were time constraints, cost, and technical issues. Overall satisfaction (scale 1-5) with the CRFC was high (4.49 ± 0.51); most completers would highly recommend the CRFC to others (4.30 ± 0.66), and perceived that the information provided will contribute to their work and/or the care of their patients (4.38 ± 0.89); 29 (78%) had used the information from the CRFC in their practice.

CONCLUSIONS

The reach of the CRFC still needs to be broadened, in particular in low-resource settings. Learners are highly satisfied with the certification, and its impacts on CR practice are encouraging. Input has been implemented to improve the CRFC.

Historical Context of Cardiac Rehabilitation: Learning From the Past to Move to the Future

Contemporary myocardial infarction (MI) care and management has evolved dramatically since the 1950's; yet outpatient rehabilitation remains underutilized. Deepening our understanding of the origins and history of cardiac rehabilitation highlights a contemporary shift required for policy and practice related to secondary prevention of coronary disease in light of societal changes as well as medical, digital and surgical advancements. Contemporary "cardiac rehabilitation" began when bed rest and physical inactivity was recommended and commonplace for MI survivors. Today, most patients who survive an MI, undergo reperfusion therapy, a short inpatient stay and are discharged with minimal physical morbidity. Despite this, the majority of modern day programs continue to be structured in the same way they have been for the past 50 years and this model has become incongruent with the contemporary context, especially in the COVID-19 era. This review aims to describe the historical foundations of cardiac rehabilitation to inform solutions and meet the demands of contemporary MI management. Delivering health systems reform to address modernization is current healthcare challenge where a united and interdisciplinary effort is needed.

Evaluation of an Online Course in 5 Languages for Inpatient Cardiac Care Providers on Promoting Cardiac Rehabilitation: REACH, EFFECTS, AND SATISFACTION

PURPOSE

Evidence proves that health care providers should promote cardiac rehabilitation (CR) to patients face-to-face to increase CR enrollment. An online course was designed to promote this at the bedside; it is evaluated herein in terms of reach, effect on knowledge, attitudes, discussion self-efficacy and practices, and satisfaction.

METHODS

Design was observational, one-group pre- and post-test. Some demographics were requested from learners taking all language versions of the 20-min course: English, Portuguese, French, Spanish, and simplified Chinese, available at: https://globalcardiacrehab.com/CR-Utilization. Investigator-generated items in the pre- and post-test and evaluation survey administered using Google Forms were based on Kirkpatrick's training evaluation model.

RESULTS

The course was initiated by 522 learners from 33 of 203 (16%) countries; most commonly female (n = 341, 65%) nurses (n = 180, 34%) from high-income countries (n = 259, 57%) completing the English (n = 296, 57%) and Chinese (n = 108, 21%) versions. A total of 414 (79%) learners completed the post-test and 302 (58%) completed the evaluation. Median CR attitudes were 5 of 5 on the Likert scale at pre-test, suggesting some selection bias. Mean CR knowledge ([7.22 ± 2.14]/10), discussion self-efficacy ([3.86 ± 0.85]/5), and practice ([4.13 ± 1.11]/5) significantly improved after completion of the course (all P < .001). Satisfaction was high regardless of language version ([4.44 ± 0.64]/5; P = .593).

CONCLUSIONS

This free, open-access course is effective in increasing CR knowledge, self-efficacy, and encouragement practices among participating inpatient cardiac providers, with high satisfaction. While testing impact on actual CR use is needed, it should be more broadly disseminated to increase reach, in an effort to increase patient enrollment in CR, to reduce morbidity and mortality.

Examining Facilitators and Barriers to Cardiac Rehabilitation Adherence in a Low-Resource Setting in Latin America from Multiple Perspectives

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is under-used, particularly in low-resource settings. There are few studies of barriers and facilitators to CR adherence in these settings, particularly considering multiple perspectives. In this multiple-method study, a cross-sectional survey including the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale (each item scored on a five-point Likert scale) was administered to patients treated between February and July, 2019, in three CR centers in Colombia. A random subsample of 50 participants was invited to a focus group, along with an accompanying relative. Physiotherapists from the programs were invited to an interview, with a similar interview guide. Audio-recordings were transcribed and analyzed using interpretive description. A total of 210 patients completed the survey, and 9 patients, together with 3 of their relatives and 3 physiotherapists, were interviewed. The greatest barriers identified were costs (mean = 2.8 ± 1.6), distance (2.6 ± 1.6) and transportation (2.5 ± 1.6); the logistical subscale was highest. Six themes were identified, pertaining to well-being, life roles, weather, financial factors, healthcare professionals and health system factors. The main facilitators were encouragement from physiotherapists, relatives and other patients. The development of hybrid programs where patients transition from supervised to unsupervised sessions when appropriate should be considered, if health insurers were to reimburse them. Programs should consider the implications regarding policies of family inclusion.

Women's outcomes following mixed-sex, women-only, and home-based cardiac rehabilitation participation and comparison by sex

BACKGROUND

Despite women's greater need for cardiac rehabilitation (CR), they are less likely to utilize it. Innovative CR models have been developed to better meet women's needs, yet there is little controlled, comparative data assessing the effects of these models for women. This study compared outcomes in women electing to participate in mixed-sex, women-only, or home-based CR, and a matched sample of men.

METHODS

In this retrospective study, electronic records of CR participants in Toronto who were offered the choice of program model between January 2017 and July 2019 were analyzed; clinical outcomes comprised cardiorespiratory fitness, risk factors and psychosocial well-being. These were assessed at intake and post-6-month program and analyzed using general linear mixed models.

RESULTS

There were 1181 patients (727 women [74.7% mixed, 22.0% women-only, 3.3% home-based]; 454 age and diagnosis-matched men) who initiated CR; Cardiorespiratory fitness among women was higher at initiation of mixed-sex than women-only (METs 5.1 ± 1.5 vs 4.6 ± 1.3; P = .007), but no other outcome differences were observed. 428 (58.9%) women completed the programs, with few women retained in the home-based model limiting comparisons. There were significant improvements in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (P = .001) and quality of life (P = .001), and lower depressive symptoms (P = .030) as well as waist circumference (P = .001) with mixed-sex only. VO2peak was significantly higher at discharge in mixed-sex than women-only (estimate = 1.67, standard error = 0.63, 95% confidence interval = 0.43-2.91).

CONCLUSION

Participation in non-gender-tailored women-only CR was not advantageous as expected. More research is needed, particularly including women participating in home-based programs.

Validity and Reliability of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale in the Czech Republic (CRBS-CZE): Determination of Key Barriers in East-Central Europe

Cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) is an effective secondary preventive model of care. However, the use of CR is insufficient, and the reasons for this are not well-characterized in East-Central Europe. This prospective observational study psychometrically validated the recently translated Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale for the Czech language (CRBS-CZE) and identified the main CR barriers. Consecutive cardiac in/out-patients were approached from January 2020 for 18 months, of whom 186 (89.9%) consented. In addition to sociodemographic characteristics, participants completed the 21-item CRBS-CZE (response options 1-5, with higher scores representing greater barriers), and their CR utilization was tracked. Forty-five (24.2%) participants enrolled in CR, of whom 42 completed the CRBS a second time thereafter. Factor analysis revealed four factors, consistent with other CRBS translations. Internal reliability was acceptable for all but one factor (Cronbach's alpha range = 0.44-0.77). Mean total barrier scores were significantly higher in non-enrollers (p < 0.001), decreased from first and second administration in these enrollers (p < 0.001), and were lower in CR completers (p < 0.001), supporting criterion validity. There were also significant differences in barrier scores by education, geography, tobacco use, among other variables, further supporting validity. The biggest barriers to enrolment were distance, work responsibilities, lack of time, transportation problems, and comorbidities; and the greatest barriers to adherence were distance and travel. Several items were considered irrelevant at first and second administration. Other barriers included wearing a mask during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study demonstrated sufficient validity and reliability of CRBS-CZE, which supports its use in future research.

Load Distribution Analysis for Weight and Ballistocardiogram Measurements of Heart Failure Patients using a Bed Scale

Ballistocardiogram (BCG) is an emerging tool with the potential to monitor heart failure (HF) patients. A close association of the weight to the BCG as an intermediate signal source requires a careful design, where events such as saturation of the weight signal can result in the loss of the BCG. This work closely examined the factors around the weight while load cells placed under each support of a bed collected the BCG (e.g., body weight, distribution over the four supports of the bed). Following the calibration of weights based on the location of the polls, the study examined the ratios of loads in head-foot and lateral directions. The head-foot ratio was also correlated to the height. Twelve non-obese HF patients were recruited, and the weight and BCG were appropriately measured, where the average error of the weight measurements was 0.45 ± 0.30%. The mean ratio of the loads between head to foot sensors was 3.2 ± 0.7 with a maximum ratio of 4.5, showing that the head-ward sensors supported greater body weight. The ratio of the loads between the right to left sensors was 1.2 ± 0.1. The height and the head-to-foot ratio had an inverse correlation (r = 0.52). Based on the analysis, the head-ward sensors should have a higher capacity of up to three times that of the foot-ward sensors to prevent any signal saturation. Mobility issues were observed in some subjects, attributing to the lateral imbalance. These novel findings based on the end-users (i.e., HF population) may allow better allocation of conditioning resources to obtain the BCG (e.g., optimally adjusted sensitivity).

Dose of Cardiac Rehabilitation to Reduce Mortality and Morbidity: A Population-Based Study

Background

There is wide variability in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) dose (ie, number of sessions) delivered, and no evidence‐based recommendations regarding what dose to prescribe. We aimed to test what CR dose impacts major adverse cardiovascular events (MACEs).

Methods and Results

This is an historical cohort study of all patients who had coronary artery disease and who initiated supervised CR between 2002 and 2012 from a single major CR center. CR dose was defined as number of visits including exercise and patient education. Follow‐up was performed using record linkage from the Rochester Epidemiology Project. MACEs included acute myocardial infarction, unstable angina, ventricular arrhythmias, stroke, revascularization, or all‐cause mortality. Dose was analyzed in several ways, including tertiles, categories, and as a continuous variable. Cox models were adjusted for factors associated with dose and MACE. The cohort consisted of 2345 patients, who attended a mean of 12.5±11.1 of 36 prescribed sessions. After a mean follow‐up of 6 years, 695 (29.65%) patients had a MACE, including 231 who died. CR dose was inversely associated with MACE (hazard ratio, 0.66 [95% CI]; 0.55–0.91) in those completing ≥20 sessions, when compared with those not exposed to formal exercise sessions (≤1 session; log‐rank P=0.007). We did not find evidence of nonlinearity (P≥0.050), suggesting no minimal threshold nor ceiling. Each additional session was associated with a lower rate of MACE (fully adjusted hazard ratio, 0.98 [95% CI, 0.97–0.99]). Greater session frequency was also associated with lower MACE risk (fully adjusted hazard ratio, 0.74 [95% CI, 0.58–0.94]).

Conclusions

CR reduces MACEs, but the benefit appears to be linear, with greater risk reduction with higher doses, and no upper threshold.

Cardiac rehabilitation availability and characteristics in Latin America and the Caribbean: A Global Comparison

BACKGROUND

This study aimed to establish availability and characteristics of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC), where cardiovascular disease is highly prevalent.

METHODS

In this cross-sectional sub-analysis focusing on the 35 LAC countries, local cardiovascular societies identified CR programs globally. An online survey was administered to identified programs, assessing capacity and characteristics. CR need was computed relative to ischemic heart disease (IHD) incidence from the Global Burden of Disease study.

RESULTS

≥1 CR program was identified in 24 LAC countries (68.5% availability; median = 3 programs/country). Data were collected in 20/24 countries (83.3%); 139/255 programs responded (54.5%), and compared to responses from 1082 programs in 111 countries. LAC density was 1 CR spot per 24 IHD patients/year (vs 18 globally). Greatest need was observed in Brazil, Dominican Republic and Mexico (all with >150,000 spots needed/year). In 62.8% (vs 37.2% globally P < .001) of CR programs, patients pay out-of-pocket for some or all of CR. CR teams were comprised of a mean of 5.0 ± 2.3 staff (vs 6.0 ± 2.8 globally; P < .001); Social workers, dietitians, kinesiologists, and nurses were significantly less common on CR teams than globally. Median number of core components offered was 8 (vs 9 globally; P < .001). Median dose of CR was 36 sessions (vs 24 globally; P < .001). Only 27 (20.9%) programs offered alternative CR models (vs 31.1% globally; P < .01).

CONCLUSION

In LAC countries, there is very limited CR capacity in relation to need. CR dose is high, but comprehensiveness low, which could be rectified with a more multidisciplinary team.

Nature, availability, and utilization of women-focused cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review

Background

Women do not participate in cardiac rehabilitation (CR) to the same degree as men; women-focused CR may address this. This systematic review investigated the: (1) nature, (2) availability, as well as (3a) utilization of, and (b) satisfaction with women-focused CR.

Methods

Medline, Pubmed, Embase, PsycINFO, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus and Emcare were searched for articles from inception to May 2020. Primary studies of any design were included. Adult females with any cardiac diseases, participating in women-focused CR (i.e., program or sessions included ≥ 50% females, or was 1-1 and tailored to women’s needs) were considered. Two authors rated citations for inclusion. One extracted data, including study quality rated as per the Mixed-Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT), which was checked independently by a second author. Results were analyzed in accordance with the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) reporting guideline.

Results

3498 unique citations were identified, with 28 studies (53 papers) included (3697 women; ≥ 10 countries). Globally, women-focused CR is offered by 40.9% of countries that have CR, with 32.1% of programs in those countries offering it. Thirteen (46.4%) studies offered women-focused sessions (vs. full program), 17 (60.7%) were women-only, and 11 (39.3%) had gender-tailoring. Five (17.9%) programs offered alternate forms of exercise, and 17 (60.7%) focused on psychosocial aspects. With regard to utilization, women-focused CR cannot be offered as frequently, so could be less accessible. Adherence may be greater with gender-tailored CR, and completion effects are not known. Satisfaction was assessed in 1 trial, and results were equivocal.

Conclusions

Women-focused CR involves tailoring of content, mode and/or sex composition. Availability is limited. Effects on utilization require further study.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12872-021-02267-0.

Cardiac Specialists' Perspectives on Barriers to Cardiac Rehabilitation Referral and Participation in a Low-Resource Setting

Background:

Cardiac specialists are arguably the most influential providers in ensuring patients access cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Physician barriers to referral have been scantly investigated outside of high-income settings, and not qualitatively.

Aim:

This study investigated cardiac specialists’ perceptions of barriers and facilitators to patient CR participation in a low-resource setting, with a focus on referral.

Methods:

In this qualitative study, focus groups were conducted with conventional content analysis. Thirteen of 14 eligible cardiac specialists working in Yazd, Iran, participated in 1 or both focus groups (n = 9 and n = 10, respectively). The recording of the first focus group was transcribed into a word file verbatim, and the accuracy of the content of all field notes and the transcripts was approved by the research team, which was then analyzed inductively. Following a similar process, saturation was achieved with the second focus group.

Results:

Four themes emerged: “physician factors,” “center factors,” “patient factors,” and “cultural factors.” Regarding “physician factors,” most participants mentioned shortage of time. Regarding “center factors,” most participants mentioned poor physician-patient-center coordination. In “patient factors,” the subcategories that arose were socioeconomic challenges and clinical condition of the patients. “Cultural factors” related to lack of belief in behavioral/preventive medicine.

Conclusions:

Barriers to CR referral and participation were multilevel, as in high-resource settings. However, relative recency of the introduction of CR in these settings seemed to cause great lack of awareness. Cultural beliefs may differ, and communication from CR programs to referring providers was a particular challenge in this setting.

Cardiac Rehabilitation Perceptions Among Healthcare Providers in China: A Mixed-Methods Study

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) in China has not been widely adopted for a variety of reasons, including healthcare provider (HCP)s' lack of awareness and beliefs.

OBJECTIVE

To explore HCP's perceptions of CR in China.

METHODS

An exploratory, sequential design was used in this mixed-methods study. Face-to-face semi-structured interviews were performed; this was followed by a cross-sectional survey.

SETTING

The interviews were conducted in a university-affiliated hospital and a rehabilitation hospital in Shanghai. The survey was conducted in the cardiac departments of primary, secondary, or tertiary hospitals in Shanghai or Yunnan Province, China.

PARTICIPANTS

Saturation was achieved upon interviewing 13 HCPs (5 doctors, and 8 nurses). A total of 610 HCPs (185 doctors [30.5%], 417 nurses [68.8%]) completed the survey.

RESULTS

Analysis of the interviews revealed 4 themes: the perceived value of CR, the need for pro-CR policy, variability in CR awareness, and obstacles to CR delivery. HCP approaches to the treatment of patients with cardiac conditions did not universally include exercise training (only approximately 60% of HCPs), or all other recommended domains of secondary prevention, and assessment of the major risk factors was quite low. Familiarity with CR was moderate (48.7%). HCPs perceived that philosophies of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) were highly compatible with, and could add value to, CR. HCP approaches to secondary preventive care and CR perceptions varied significantly according to their highest level of education, clinical profession, job seniority, type of hospital where they worked, whether the hospital had a CR program and the hospital's location.

CONCLUSION

HCPs recognize the value of CR, particularly considering secondary preventive care practices were not comprehensive. Education is needed to improve HCPs CR awareness.