Impacts of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Cardiac Rehabilitation Delivery around the World

A Complex Interplay: Navigating the Crossroads of Tobacco Use, Cardiovascular Disease, and the COVID-19 Pandemic: A WHF Policy Brief

The Coronavirus Disease 2019, commonly referred to as COVID-19, is responsible for one of the deadliest pandemics in human history. The direct, indirect and lasting repercussions of the COVID-19 pandemic on individuals and public health, as well as health systems can still be observed, even today. In the midst of the initial chaos, the role of tobacco as a prognostic factor for unfavourable COVID-19 outcomes was largely neglected. As of 2023, numerous studies have confirmed that use of tobacco, a leading risk factor for cardiovascular and other diseases, is strongly associated with increased risks of severe COVID-19 complications (e.g., hospitalisation, ICU admission, need for mechanical ventilation, long COVID, etc.) and deaths from COVID-19. In addition, evidence suggests that COVID-19 directly affects multiple organs beyond the respiratory system, disproportionately impacting individuals with comorbidities. Notably, people living with cardiovascular disease are more prone to experiencing worse outcomes, as COVID-19 often inherently manifests as thrombotic cardiovascular complications. As such, the triad of tobacco, COVID-19 and cardiovascular disease constitutes a dangerous cocktail. The lockdowns and social distancing measures imposed by governments have also had adverse effects on our lifestyles (e.g., shifts in diets, physical activity, tobacco consumption patterns, etc.) and mental well-being, all of which affect cardiovascular health. In particular, vulnerable populations are especially susceptible to tobacco use, cardiovascular disease and the psychological fallout from the pandemic. Therefore, national pandemic responses need to consider health equity as well as the social determinants of health. The pandemic has also had catastrophic impacts on many health systems, bringing some to the brink of collapse. As a result, many health services, such as services for cardiovascular disease or tobacco cessation, were severely disrupted due to fears of transmission and redirection of resources for COVID-19 care. Unfortunately, the return to pre-pandemic levels of cardiovascular disease care activity has stagnated. Nevertheless, digital solutions, such as telemedicine and apps, have flourished, and may help reduce the gaps. Advancing tobacco control was especially challenging due to interference from the tobacco industry. The industry exploited lingering uncertainties to propagate misleading information on tobacco and COVID-19 in order to promote its products. Regrettably, the links between tobacco use and risk of SARS-CoV-2 infection remain inconclusive. However, a robust body of evidence has, since then, demonstrated that tobacco use is associated with more severe COVID-19 illness and complications. Additionally, the tobacco industry also repeatedly attempted to forge partnerships with governments under the guise of corporate social responsibility. The implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control could address many of the aforementioned challenges and alleviate the burden of tobacco, COVID-19, and cardiovascular disease. In particular, the implementation of Article 5.3 could protect public health policies from the vested interests of the industry. The world can learn from the COVID-19 pandemic to better prepare for future health emergencies of international concern. In light of the impact of tobacco on the COVID-19 pandemic, it is imperative that tobacco control remains a central component in pandemic preparedness and response plans.

Digital health intervention in patients undergoing cardiac rehabilitation: systematic review and meta-analysis

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) continues to be the foremost mortality internationally. Cardiac rehabilitation has proven as an effective program in reducing CVD burden. Participation in cardiac rehabilitation programs is very low. Digital health intervention emerged as an alternative method to deliver Cardiac rehabilitation. This review aimed to investigate the impact of digital health intervention on the outcomes of interest.

Methods

the following databases: PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and Cochrane Library have been searched to retrieve randomized controlled trials that examine the impact of digital health intervention on blood pressure, body mass index, lipid profile, blood glucose, Six-Minute Walk Test, and peak oxygen consumption. filters were set to include studies published in English between 2000-2023.

Results

Nineteen studies were included in this review. Six-Minute Walk Test (MD = 16.70; 95% CI: 6.00 to 27.39, p = 0.000) and maximal oxygen consumption (SMD = 0.27; 95% CI: 0.08 to 0.45, p = 0.004) significantly improved following digital health intervention, after employing the sensitivity analysis significant improvement was observed in systolic (MD = -2.54; 95% CI: -4.98 to -0.11, p = 0.04) and diastolic blood pressure (SMD = -2.0182; 95% CI: -3.9436 to -0.0928, p = 0.04) favoring experimental groups. Subgroup analysis revealed significant improvement in quality of life after three months of follow-up (SMD = 0.18; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.31, p = 0.00), no significant differences have been observed in body mass index, lipid profile, and blood glucose.

Conclusion

The findings emphasize the significant impact of digital vs CBCR or usual care on physical capacity, blood pressure, and quality of life. Despite the non-statistically significant differences in body mass index and lipid profile, the comparable effect between the two methods suggests the superiority of digital over CBCR or usual care due to its convenient nature, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness.

Key features in telehealth-delivered cardiac rehabilitation required to optimize cardiovascular health in coronary heart disease: a systematic review and realist synthesis

Telehealth-delivered cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes can potentially increase participation rates while delivering equivalent outcomes to facility-based programmes. However, key components of these interventions that reduce cardiovascular risk factors are not yet distinguished. This study aims to identify features of telehealth-delivered CR that improve secondary prevention outcomes, exercise capacity, participation, and participant satisfaction and develop recommendations for future telehealth-delivered CR. The protocol for our review was registered with the Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (#CRD42021236471). We systematically searched four databases (PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, and Cochrane Database) for randomized controlled trials comparing telehealth-delivered CR programmes to facility-based interventions or usual care. Two independent reviewers screened the abstracts and then full texts. Using a qualitative review methodology (realist synthesis), included articles were evaluated to determine contextual factors and potential mechanisms that impacted cardiovascular risk factors, exercise capacity, participation in the intervention, and increased satisfaction. We included 37 reports describing 26 randomized controlled trials published from 2010 to 2022. Studies were primarily conducted in Europe and Australia/Asia. Identified contextual factors and mechanisms were synthesized into four theories required to enhance participant outcomes and participation. These theories are as follows: (i) early and regular engagement; (ii) personalized interventions and shared goals; (iii) usable, accessible, and supported interventions; and (iv) exercise that is measured and monitored. Providing a personalized approach with frequent opportunities for bi-directional interaction was a critical feature for success across telehealth-delivered CR trials. Real-world effectiveness studies are now needed to complement our findings.

Uptake and implementation of cardiac telerehabilitation: A systematic review of provider and system barriers and enablers

BACKGROUND

Cardiac telerehabilitation has demonstrated effectiveness for patient health outcomes, but uptake and implementation into practice have been limited and variable. While patient-level influences on uptake have been identified, little is known about provider- and system-level factors.

AIMS

To identify provider and system barriers and enablers to uptake and implementation of cardiac telerehabilitation.

METHODS

A systematic review was conducted, including a search of six databases (MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, Scopus, Web of Science, and PsycINFO) from 2000 to March 2023. Two reviewers independently screened eligible articles. Study quality was evaluated according to study design by the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme (CASP) checklist for qualitative data, the Appraisal Tool for Cross-sectional Studies (AXIS), and the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT) for mixed methods. Data were analysed using narrative synthesis.

RESULTS

Twenty eligible studies (total 1674 participants) were included. Perceived provider-level barriers included that cardiac telerehabilitation is resource intensive, inferior to centre-based delivery, and lack of staff preparation. Whereas provider-level enablers were having access to resources, adequate staff preparation, positive staff beliefs regarding cardiac telerehabilitation and positive team dynamics. System-level barriers related to unaligned policy, healthcare system and insurance structures, technology issues, lack of plans for implementation, and inadequate resources. System-level enablers included cost-effectiveness, technology availability, reliability, and adaptability, and adequate program development, implementation planning and leadership support.

CONCLUSIONS

Barriers and enablers at both provider and system levels must be recognised and addressed at the local context to ensure better uptake of cardiac telerehabilitation programs.

A Systematic Review of Clinical Practice Guidelines and Consensus Statements for Cardiac Rehabilitation Delivery: Consensus, Divergence, and Important Knowledge Gaps

BACKGROUND

After 2020, clinical practice recommendations have been released to inform cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs of best practices for post-COVID programming. The objective of this systematic review was to identify and summarize recommendations from clinical practice guidelines (CPGs) and consensus statements for CR delivery postpandemic.

METHODS

Five databases (March 2020 through April 2023), grey literature and Web sites of CR international associations were searched. Inclusion criteria were local, national, and international association-endorsed CPGs, and/or position, expert, and scientific statements related to CR delivery (program models, program elements, and core components). Two researchers independently screened the citations for inclusion. The Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation (AGREE) II was used for quality assessment. Results were analyzed in accordance with the Synthesis Without Meta-analysis (SWiM) reporting guidelines.

RESULTS

Overall, 4890 records were identified; 4 CPGs, 9 position/scientific statements, and 6 expert/Delphi consensus papers were included. All guidelines/statements included information related to program delivery models, with 95% endorsing the use of virtual, hybrid, home-based, and telerehabilitation, especially during the pandemic. Outside of the context of COVID-19, program components including referral, CR indications, CR contraindications, timing, and structure were included in the 4 CPGs and 2 of 15 statements. Recommendations related to CR core components were primarily focused on exercise, with no changes since before the pandemic except for COVID-19 considerations for safety. One guideline was specific to women, and 1 scientific statement to heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

CONCLUSIONS

Although 19 documents were identified, CR delivery in low resource settings and for culturally and linguistically diverse populations require attention. Additionally, few recommendations on nutrition, psychosocial counselling, and patient education were reported.

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.

The Translation, Culture-Adaptation and Psychometric Evaluation of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Barriers Scale Among Chinese Older Population

Purpose

This study aimed to translate and cross-culturally adapt the cardiac rehabilitation barriers scale to the Chinese, and examine its reliability and validity among the older population.

Methods

An approach comprising translation, cultural adaptation, reliability, and validity examination in the Chinese version was conducted in two hospitals in Jilin, China. The t-tests were used to compare the sex differences between each item. Participants included Chinese individuals >60 who were eligible for the cardiac rehabilitation program.

Results

In total, 325 participants completed the questionnaire with an average age of 61.23 ± 9.68 years. The item-total correlations were 0.432 to 0.678. Factor analysis of CRBS-C (Kaiser Meyer Olkin = 0.867, Bartlett's test p = 0.000) revealed four factors: logistical factors, comorbidities/functional status, perceived need/healthcare factors, and work/time conflict. The confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) indicated a good model fit (χ2/df = 1.84, RMSEA = 0.051, CFI = 0.953, TLI = 0.945, SRMR=0.046). Cronbach's alpha was 0.88 for the scale, ranging from 0.801 to 0.88 for each item, which indicates the internal reliability was acceptable.

Conclusion

The Chinese version of the CRRS has acceptable reliability and validity in the Chinese elderly population.

Exploring patient experiences of participating in digital cardiac rehabilitation: A qualitative study

OBJECTIVE

Digital cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has emerged as a promising alternative to in-person CR. Understanding patients' experiences and perceptions can provide valuable insights into what makes these programmes successful and identify opportunities for improvement. This study aimed to explore patients' experiences of digital CR and to understand the factors that make these programmes successful.

DESIGN

A qualitative approach was taken.

METHODS

From March to August 2022, we conducted semi-structured interviews with patients who were referred to one of two digital CR programmes offered on the island of Ireland. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using reflexive thematic analysis. A public and patient involvement panel guided the recruitment strategy and assisted with data analysis.

RESULTS

Eleven patients, predominantly male (82%) and with a mean age of 64 (range 50-75), participated in the study. Five themes were developed: (1) Empowered patients; (2) Controlling the recovery; (3) At home but not alone; (4) The world at your (digital) doorstep and; (5) Challenges of interacting online. Participants reported that digital CR equipped them with the necessary tools and support to modify their lifestyle and effectively manage their recovery. However, the opportunities for social interaction were limited and communicating online was not always straightforward.

CONCLUSIONS

Participants reported that digital CR guided them towards recovery and improved their sense of empowerment and control. However, the limited opportunities for social interaction may represent a challenge for patients seeking social support.

Rationale and Design of the mTECH-Rehab Randomized Controlled Trial: Impact of a Mobile Technology Enabled Corrie Cardiac Rehabilitation Program on Functional Status and Cardiovascular Health

BACKGROUND

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an evidence-based, guideline-recommended intervention for patients recovering from a cardiac event, surgery or procedure that improves morbidity, mortality, and functional status. CR is traditionally provided in-center, which limits access and engagement, most notably among underrepresented racial and ethnic groups due to barriers including cost, scheduling, and transportation access. This study is designed to evaluate the Corrie Hybrid CR, a technology-based, multicomponent health equity-focused intervention as an alternative to traditional in-center CR among patients recovering from a cardiac event, surgery, or procedure compared with usual care alone.

METHODS

The mTECH-Rehab (Impact of a Mobile Technology Enabled Corrie CR Program) trial will randomize 200 patients who either have diagnosis of myocardial infarction or who undergo coronary artery bypass grafting surgery, percutaneous coronary intervention, heart valve repair, or replacement presenting to 4 hospitals in a large academic health system in Maryland, United States, to the Corrie Hybrid CR program combined with usual care CR (intervention group) or usual care CR alone (control group) in a parallel arm, randomized controlled trial. The Corrie Hybrid CR program leverages 5 components: (1) a patient-facing mobile application that encourages behavior change, patient empowerment, and engagement with guideline-directed therapy; (2) Food and Drug Administration-approved smart devices that collect health metrics; (3) 2 upfront in-center CR sessions to facilitate personalization, self-efficacy, and evaluation for the safety of home exercise, followed by a combination of in-center and home-based sessions per participant preference; (4) a clinician dashboard to track health data; and (5) weekly virtual coaching sessions delivered over 12 weeks for education, encouragement, and risk factor modification. The primary outcome is the mean difference between the intervention versus control groups in distance walked on the 6-minute walk test (ie, functional capacity) at 12 weeks post randomization. Key secondary and exploratory outcomes include improvement in a composite cardiovascular health metric, CR engagement, quality of life, health factors (including low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol, hemoglobin A1c, weight, diet, smoking cessation, blood pressure), and psychosocial factors. Approval for the study was granted by the local institutional review board. Results of the trial will be published once data collection and analysis have been completed.

CONCLUSIONS

The Corrie Hybrid CR program has the potential to improve functional status, cardiovascular health, and CR engagement and advance equity in access to cardiac rehabilitation.

REGISTRATION

URL: https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT05238103.

Behavioural and psychological telehealth support for people with cardiac conditions: randomized trial of the 'back on track' self-management programme

AIMS

Behaviour modification and mood management are essential to recovery after a cardiac event. Recent times have seen a major shift to remote delivery of cardiac services. This study assessed behavioural and psychological outcomes of the Back on Track online self-management programme, comparing the programme undertaken alone (self-directed) vs. with telephone support (supported). Relevance for people with depression was also assessed.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Participants with cardiac conditions (n = 122) were randomly assigned to self-directed or supported groups and given access to the online programme for 2 months. The programme addressed depression, anxiety, physical activity, and healthy eating. Supported group participants also received two telephone sessions facilitated by a trained counsellor to further enhance their self-management skills and engagement with the online modules. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9, Generalized Anxiety Disorder-7, and Active Australia Survey and Diet Quality Tool were administered at baseline, 2, and 6 months. χ2 tests were used to compare self-directed and supported groups. Cochrane's Q tests assessed changes over time in depression, anxiety, and physical activity (PA) and healthy diet guideline achievement. Participants in both groups showed reduced depression rates (self-directed, P < 0.05) and increased PA after programme completion (both groups, P < 0.05). Amongst those classified as depressed at baseline, significantly fewer were classified as depressed over time (P < 0.001) and significantly more were achieving the PA guidelines (P < 0.01) compared to those who were not depressed at baseline.

CONCLUSIONS

The Back on Track telehealth programme was effective in assisting with behavioural and emotional recovery after a cardiac event. The programme may be particularly beneficial for those who are depressed early in their recovery period.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

Australian New Zealand Clinical Trials Registry: ACTRN12620000102976.

Evaluation of a digital patient education programme for Chinese immigrants after a heart attack

AIMS

To evaluate a self-administered digital education resource for patients after a heart attack (adapted simplified Chinese version of Cardiac College™) on secondary prevention knowledge and health behaviour change outcomes.

METHODS AND RESULTS

Chinese immigrants recovering from a heart attack were recruited from cardiac rehabilitation programmes at four metropolitan tertiary hospitals. Participants provided access to Cardiac College™ (adapted simplified Chinese version), a self-learning secondary prevention virtual education resource over 4 weeks. The web-based resources include 9 booklets and 10 pre-recorded video education sessions. Assessments included health literacy, secondary prevention knowledge, self-management behaviours, self-reported physical activity, and a heart-healthy diet. Satisfaction, acceptability, and engagement were also assessed.From 81 patients screened, 67 were recruited, and 64 (95.5%) completed the study. The participants' mean age was 67.2 ± 8.1 years old, 81.2% were males, and the majority had no English proficiency (65.6%). Following the intervention, significant improvements were observed for secondary prevention knowledge overall and in all subdomains, with the most improvement occurring in medical, exercise, and psychological domains (P < 0.001). Dietary and self-management behaviours also improved significantly (P < 0.05). According to participants, the educational materials were engaging (100%), and the content was adequate (68.8%); however, 26.6% found the information overwhelming. Overall, 46.9% were highly satisfied with the resources.

CONCLUSION

A self-learning virtual patient-education package improved secondary prevention knowledge and self-care behaviour in Chinese immigrants after a heart attack. The culturally adapted version of Cardiac College™ offers an alternative education model where bilingual staff or translated resources are limited.

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.

Expanding access to telehealth in Australian cardiac rehabilitation services: a national survey of barriers, enablers, and uptake

Aims

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is traditionally delivered in-person; however, the COVID-19 pandemic provided impetus for alternative offerings such as telehealth. We investigated uptake, barriers, and enablers in a national survey during the pandemic in Australia.

Methods and results

We surveyed CR programmes between April and June 2021 using professional association networks. The anonymous online questionnaire addressed programme characteristics, COVID-19 impacts, and barriers to and enablers of telehealth use. Open-text responses were coded and presented as themes. In total, there were responses from 105 programmes (33% response rate). All states and geographical areas were represented. The use of every modality of telehealth care (telephone, video conferencing, text messaging, and web-based) increased significantly during and after COVID with a strong preference for telephone (85% of services). Respondents perceived video (53%) and telephone (47%) formats as safe and effective for delivering CR. The most common barriers to telehealth were difficulties conducting assessments and reduced engagement with patients. Prominent enablers were increased reach and reduced patient barriers to CR access.

Conclusion

Telehealth use by CR programmes increased during the peak pandemic period. However, additional support is required to ensure that telehealth services can be maintained. There is considerable potential to increase the reach of CR by embedding telehealth into existing models of care.

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.

Screening for - and prevalence of - anxiety and depression in cardiac rehabilitation in the post-COVID era. An observational study

BACKGROUND

Approximately 20-30% of patients with a cardiac disease suffer from anxiety and/or depression, leading to poor health outcomes. To identify this subgroup, clinical guidelines recommend screening for anxiety and depression in cardiac rehabilitation (CR). It is unknown how screening practice is delivered post-COVID.

METHODS

This observational study used data from the National Audit of Cardiac Rehabilitation from April 2018-March 2022. Descriptive statistics were used to assess screening rates and prevalence, while a multivariate logistic regression model was performed to analyse determinants for screening for anxiety and depression among patients participating in cardiac rehabilitation.

RESULTS

The population consisted of 245,705 patients, where 128,643 (52.4%) were screened and 117,062 (47.6%) were not. Patients attending CR during first year of COVID-19 were less likely to be screened. Patients with female gender, living alone, non-white ethnicity, living in the most deprived areas, current smoking, and physical inactivity were less likely to be screened, while patients who were revascularized, having an objective physical fitness test, and attending a certified CR center were more likely to be screened. For patients attending CR during COVID-19, the prevalence of anxiety and depression decreased significantly. For anxiety the prevalence dropped from 34.4% to 15.8%, for depression the prevalence dropped from 33.5% to 16.5%.

CONCLUSION

CR service provision was negatively impacted during COVID-19, leading to much lower screening for anxiety and depression in the CR setting. Prevalence of anxiety and depression decreased during COVID-19 for this population, possibly because psychologically affected patients refrained from attending CR.

Impact of cardiac rehabilitation on pre- and post-operative transcatheter aortic valve replacement prognoses

Transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) is a relatively new treatment method for aortic stenosis (AS) and has been demonstrated to be suitable for patients with varying risk levels. Indeed, among high-risk patients, TAVR outcomes are comparable to, or even better, than that of the traditional surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) method. TAVR outcomes, with respect to post-surgical functional capacity and quality of life, have also been found to be improved, especially when combined with cardiac rehabilitation (CR). CR is a multidisciplinary system, which integrates cardiology with other medical disciplines, such as sports, nutritional, mind-body, and behavioral medicine. It entails the development of appropriate medication, exercise, and diet prescriptions, along with providing psychological support, ensuring the cessation of smoking, and developing risk factor management strategies for cardiovascular disease patients. However, even with CR being able to improve TAVR outcomes and reduce post-surgical mortality rates, it still has largely been underutilized in clinical settings. This article reviews the usage of CR during both pre-and postoperative periods for valvular diseases, and the factors involved in influencing subsequent patient prognoses, thereby providing a direction for subsequent research and clinical applications.

Effectiveness and Safety of Remote Cardiac Rehabilitation for Patients After Acute Coronary Syndrome

Cardiac rehabilitation improves cardiovascular outcomes in patients after acute coronary syndrome (ACS). Recently there has been a growing interest in remote cardiac rehabilitation (RCR) programs. We aimed to evaluate the effectiveness of RCR compared with center-based cardiac rehabilitation (CBCR). This is an observational study including patients after hospital admission for ACS. The study group included patients at low-to-moderate risk for cardiovascular complications who were referred for RCR. The control group included patients at similar risk who participated in CBCR. The primary end points were the improvement of at least 10% to 25% in exercise capacity after 6 months of cardiac rehabilitation. Included were 305 patients who completed 6 months of cardiac rehabilitation. Of them, 107 patients participated in RCR and 198 in CBCR. RCR patients were younger and more frequently males. Improvement of ≥10% in exercise capacity after 6 months was achieved more frequently in patients participating in RCR compared with CBCR (69.3% and 55% respectively, p = 0.03). A similar trend was observed for improvement of ≥25% in exercise capacity after 6 months (33.8% and 22.7% in RCR and CBCR, respectively, p = 0.05). While weight reduction and the increase in muscle mass were similar in the 2 groups, fat percent reduction was significantly greater in the RCR compared with the CBCR (2.5% and 1.4% respectively, p <0.005). We conclude that RCR program is an effective and safe option for low-risk patients after hospital admission for ACS. It enables optimizing the utilization of this important service for patients with coronary artery disease.

Characteristics and correlates of disease-related knowledge and exercise self-efficacy among cardiac patients attending virtual cardiac rehabilitation during the first COVID-19 lockdown in Peru

BACKGROUND

Government responses and restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic (e.g., limits to non-urgent health care services, including non-urgent outpatient appointments) led to the suspension of center-based (in-person) cardiac rehabilitation (CR), with many programs switching to virtual delivery. This study aimed to understand the characteristics and correlates of disease-related knowledge and exercise self-efficacy in a group of patients attending a virtual CR program during the first COVID-19 lockdown in Peru.

METHODS

In this prospective observational study, 240 patients receiving virtual CR care (exercise instructions and patient education) between August/2020 and December/2021 completed questionnaires pre- and post-CR assessing disease-related knowledge (CADE-Q SV questionnaire) and self-efficacy (SE; Bandura's Exercise SE scale). Paired t tests were used to investigate changes pre/post-CR and Pearson correlation coefficients were used to determine the association between knowledge/SE and patients' characteristics.

RESULTS

Participants were mainly comprised of men, with a cardiac diagnosis of stable coronary artery disease, who underwent percutaneous coronary intervention or had a known diagnosis of hypertension and with at least one cardiovascular risk factor (95.8%). Mean total knowledge scores improved significantly at post-CR (12.9 ± 2.4 to 15.6 ± 2.0/20; p<0.001), as well as in 4/5 knowledge areas (cardiovascular risk factors, exercise, nutrition, and psychosocial risk; p<0.001). Mean SE scores improved significantly at post-CR (1.9 ± 0.9 to 3.0 ± 0.9/5; p = 0.01). Post-CR knowledge and SE were significantly correlated with cardiac diagnosis and surgical procedures (r = 0.17, p = 0.02 and r = 0.27, p = 0.02, respectively).

CONCLUSIONS

The virtual CR program improved disease-related knowledge and SE of cardiac patients during the first months of the COVID-19 pandemic. Post-CR outcomes were correlated with cardiac diagnosis and surgical procedures and more research with other characteristics is warrantied.

Efficacy and Safety of Hybrid Comprehensive Telerehabilitation (HCTR) for Cardiac Rehabilitation in Patients with Cardiovascular Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials

Backgrounds

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a serious condition that poses threats to patients' quality of life and life expectancy. Cardiac rehabilitation is a crucial treatment option that can improve outcomes for CVD patients. Hybrid comprehensive telerehabilitation (HCTR) is a relatively new approach. In the context of pandemics, HCTR can minimize the risk of cluster infections by reducing hospital visits while delivering effective rehabilitation care. This study is aimed at assessing the efficacy and safety of HCTR as a secondary prevention measure for CVD patients compared to usual rehabilitation care.

Methods

We searched PubMed, Embase, The Web of Science, The Cochrane Library, and PsychINFO for all related studies up to January 20, 2023. Two reviewers independently screened the titles and abstracts of potentially eligible articles based on the predefined search criteria. Data were analyzed using a comprehensive meta-analysis software (RevMan5.3).

Results

Eight trials, involving 1578 participants, were included. HCTR and usual rehabilitation care provide similar effects on readmission rates (odds ratio (OR) = 0.90 (95% CI 0.69-1.17), P = 0.43) and mortality (odds ratio (OR) = 1.06 (95% CI 0.72-1.57), P = 0.76). Effects on Short Form-36 Health Status Questionnaire (SF-36) score were also similar (SMD: 1.32 (95% CI-0.48-3.11), P = 0.15). Compared with usual rehabilitation care, HCTR can improve peak oxygen uptake (VO2 peak) (SMD: 0.99 (95% CI 0.23-1.74), P = 0.01) and 6-minute walking test (6MWT) (SMD: 10.02 (95% CI 5.44-14.60), P < 0.001) of patients.

Conclusions

Our findings indicate that HCTR is as effective as traditional rehabilitation care in reducing readmission rates and mortality and improving quality of life in patients with CVD. However, HCTR offers the added advantage of improving VO2 peak and 6MWT, measurements of cardiorespiratory fitness and functional capacity, respectively. These results suggest that HCTR can be a safe and effective alternative to traditional rehabilitation care, offering numerous benefits for CVD patients. Clinical Study Registration Number. This trial is registered with NCT02523560 and NCT02796404.

Information needs of women with breast cancer participating in cardiovascular rehabilitation: A mixed-methods study

OBJECTIVE

To determine the information needs of women with a history of breast cancer attending a cardiovascular rehabilitation (CR) program.

METHODS

A mixed-methods approach was used, including a cross-sectional online survey using an adapted version of the Toronto Information Needs Questionnaire Breast Cancer (TINQ-BC) and 7 virtual focus group sessions (n = 20).

RESULTS

Overall, 50 responses were received. The TINQ-BC mean was 4.2 ± 0.5/5, with 34/42 items scoring higher than 4 (very important). The highest information needs were related to knowing if cancer is in their bodies or has come back, ways to prevent treatment side effects, and how the illness may affect their future. Participants identified their preferences for education delivery as discussion with peers/healthcare providers and lectures. The focus groups revealed six overarching themes: need for peer support, to make connections, and build relationships; comfort with and utility of technology; desire to learn about specific educational topics; preferences for education sessions; value of education; and value of exercise.

CONCLUSIONS

These findings provided insight into the information needs of women with a history of breast cancer who participate in CR.

PRACTICAL IMPLICATION

The care of these patients should be personalized based on these needs to support their adherence to the program.

Technologies in Home-Based Digital Rehabilitation: Scoping Review

BACKGROUND

Due to growing pressure on the health care system, a shift in rehabilitation to home settings is essential. However, efficient support for home-based rehabilitation is lacking. The COVID-19 pandemic has further exacerbated these challenges and has affected individuals and health care professionals during rehabilitation. Digital rehabilitation (DR) could support home-based rehabilitation. To develop and implement DR solutions that meet clients' needs and ease the growing pressure on the health care system, it is necessary to provide an overview of existing, relevant, and future solutions shaping the constantly evolving market of technologies for home-based DR.

OBJECTIVE

In this scoping review, we aimed to identify digital technologies for home-based DR, predict new or emerging DR trends, and report on the influences of the COVID-19 pandemic on DR.

METHODS

The scoping review followed the framework of Arksey and O'Malley, with improvements made by Levac et al. A literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and the Cochrane Library. The search spanned January 2015 to January 2022. A bibliometric analysis was performed to provide an overview of the included references, and a co-occurrence analysis identified the technologies for home-based DR. A full-text analysis of all included reviews filtered the trends for home-based DR. A gray literature search supplemented the results of the review analysis and revealed the influences of the COVID-19 pandemic on the development of DR.

RESULTS

A total of 2437 records were included in the bibliometric analysis and 95 in the full-text analysis, and 40 records were included as a result of the gray literature search. Sensors, robotic devices, gamification, virtual and augmented reality, and digital and mobile apps are already used in home-based DR; however, artificial intelligence and machine learning, exoskeletons, and digital and mobile apps represent new and emerging trends. Advantages and disadvantages were displayed for all technologies. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an increased use of digital technologies as remote approaches but has not led to the development of new technologies.

CONCLUSIONS

Multiple tools are available and implemented for home-based DR; however, some technologies face limitations in the application of home-based rehabilitation. However, artificial intelligence and machine learning could be instrumental in redesigning rehabilitation and addressing future challenges of the health care system, and the rehabilitation sector in particular. The results show the need for feasible and effective approaches to implement DR that meet clients' needs and adhere to framework conditions, regardless of exceptional situations such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

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.

Personalized smart voice-based electronic prescription for remote at-home feedback management in cardiovascular disease rehabilitation: a multi-center randomized controlled trial

Objective

To investigate the quality and efficacy of remote at-home rehabilitation for patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD) using personalized smart voice-based electronic prescription, and further explore the standardized health management mode of remote family cardiac rehabilitation. Trial design: A multicenter, randomized (1:1), non-blind, parallel controlled study.

Methods

A total of 171 patients with CVD who were admitted to 18 medical institutions in China from April 2021 to October 2022 were randomly divided into a treatment group (86 cases) and a control group (85 cases) in a non-blinded experiment, based on the sequence of enrollment. The control group received routine at-home rehabilitation training, and the treatment group received remote feedback-based at-home cardiac rehabilitation management based on routine at-home rehabilitation training. The primary outcome was the difference in VO2peak (mL/min/kg) after 12 weeks. A linear mixed model was developed with follow-up as the dependent variable. Age and baseline data were utilized as covariates, whereas hospital and patient characteristics were adjusted as random-effect variables. As the linear mixed model can accommodate missing data under the assumption of random missing data, there was no substitute missing value for quantitative data.

Results

A total of 171 participants, with 86 in the experimental group and 85 in the control group, were included in the main analysis. The analysis, which used linear mixing model, revealed significant differences in cardiopulmonary function indexes (VO2/kg peak, VO2peak, AT, METs, and maximum resistance) at different follow-up time (0, 4, and 12 weeks) in the experimental group (p < 0.05). In the control group, there was no significant difference in cardiopulmonary values at different follow-up time (0, 4, and 12 weeks; p > 0.05). VO2/kg peak (LS mean 1.49, 95%CI 0.09-2.89, p = 0.037) and other indicators of cardiopulmonary function (p < 0.05) were significantly different between the experimental group and the control group at week 12. The results were comparable in the complete case analysis.

Conclusion

The remote home cardiac rehabilitation management mode using personalized smart voice-based electronic prescription provides several benefits to patients, including improvements in muscle strength, endurance, cardiopulmonary function, and aerobic metabolism. It also helps reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease and enhances patients' self-management abilities and treatment compliance.Clinical trial registration: http://www.chictr.org.cn, identifier ChiCTR2100044063.

Cost-effectiveness of home-based cardiac rehabilitation: a systematic review

OBJECTIVE

Centre-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is recognised as cost-effective for individuals following a cardiac event. However, home-based alternatives are becoming increasingly popular, especially since COVID-19, which necessitated alternative modes of care delivery. This review aimed to assess whether home-based CR interventions are cost-effective (vs centre-based CR).

METHODS

Using the MEDLINE, Embase and PsycINFO databases, literature searches were conducted in October 2021 to identify full economic evaluations (synthesising costs and effects). Studies were included if they focused on home-based elements of a CR programme or full home-based programmes. Data extraction and critical appraisal were completed using the NHS EED handbook, Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards and Drummond checklists and were summarised narratively. The protocol was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42021286252).

RESULTS

Nine studies were included in the review. Interventions were heterogeneous in terms of delivery, components of care and duration. Most studies were economic evaluations within clinical trials (8/9). All studies reported quality-adjusted life years, with the EQ-5D as the most common measure of health status (6/9 studies). Most studies (7/9 studies) concluded that home-based CR (added to or replacing centre-based CR) was cost-effective compared with centre-based options.

CONCLUSIONS

Evidence suggests that home-based CR options are cost-effective. The limited size of the evidence base and heterogeneity in methods limits external validity. There were further limitations to the evidence base (eg, limited sample sizes) that increase uncertainty. Future research is needed to cover a greater range of home-based designs, including home-based options for psychological care, with greater sample sizes and the potential to acknowledge patient heterogeneity.

Feasibility of a Virtual Educational Programme for Behaviour Change in Cardiac Patients from a Low-Resource Setting

Patient education is an integral part of recovery from a critical cardiac life event and a core component of cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programmes. This study addressed the feasibility of a virtual educational programme for behaviour change in CR patients from a low-resource setting in Brazil. Cardiac patients from a CR programme closed due to the pandemic received a 12-week virtual educational intervention (WhatsApp messages and bi-weekly calls from healthcare providers). Acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality, and limited efficacy were tested. Overall, 34 patients and 8 healthcare providers agreed to participate. The intervention was considered practical and acceptable by the participants, who reported a satisfaction median of 9.0 (7.4-10.0)/10 (patients) and 9.8 (9.6-10.0)/10 (providers). The main difficulties in carrying out the intervention activities were related to technology, motivation to self-learning, and a lack of in-person orientation. All the patients reported that the information included in the intervention was aligned with their information needs. The intervention was associated with changes in exercise self-efficacy, sleep quality, depressive symptoms, and performance of high-intensity physical activity. In conclusion, the intervention was considered feasible to educate cardiac patients from a low-resource setting. It should be replicated and expanded to support patients that face barriers to onsite CR participation. Challenges related to technology and self-learning should be addressed.

Evolution of rehabilitation services in response to a global pandemic: reflection on opportunities and challenges ahead

The rapidly evolving COVID-19 public health emergency has disrupted and challenged traditional healthcare, rehabilitation services, and treatment delivery worldwide. This perspective paper aimed to unite experiences and perspectives from an international group of rehabilitation providers while reflecting on the lessons learned from the challenges and opportunities raised during the COVID-19 pandemic. We discuss the global appreciation for rehabilitation services and changes in access to healthcare, including virtual, home-based rehabilitation, and long-term care rehabilitation. We illustrate lessons learned by highlighting successful rehabilitation approaches from the US, Belgium, and Japan.

Research priorities relating to the delivery of cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation programmes: results of a modified Delphi process

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this British Association for Cardiovascular Prevention and Rehabilitation (BACPR) research priority setting project (PSP) was to identify a top 10 list of priority research questions for cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation (CVPR).

METHODS

The PSP was facilitated by the BACPR clinical study group (CSG), which integrates as part of the British Heart Foundation Clinical Research Collaborative. Following a literature review to identify unanswered research questions, modified Delphi methods were used to engage CVPR-informed expert stakeholders, patients, partners and conference delegates in ranking the relevance of research questions during three rounds of an anonymous e-survey. In the first survey, unanswered questions from the literature review were ranked and respondents proposed additional questions. In the second survey, these new questions were ranked. Prioritised questions from surveys 1 and 2 were incorporated in a third/final e-survey used to identify the top 10 list.

RESULTS

From 459 responses across the global CVPR community, a final top 10 list of questions were distilled from an overall bank of 76 (61 from the current evidence base and a further 15 from respondents). These were grouped across five broad categories: access and remote delivery, exercise and physical activity, optimising programme outcomes, psychosocial health and impact of the pandemic.

CONCLUSIONS

This PSP used a modified Delphi methodology to engage the international CVPR community to generate a top 10 list of research priorities within the field. These prioritised questions will directly inform future national and international CVPR research supported by the BACPR CSG.

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.

Association of Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation With Lower Mortality in Patients With Cardiovascular Disease: Results From the Veterans Health Administration Healthy Heart Program

Background Home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) and traditional facility-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs have similar effects on mortality in clinical trials and meta-analyses. However, the effect of HBCR on mortality in clinical practice settings is less clear. Therefore, we sought to compare mortality rates in HBCR participants versus nonparticipants. Methods and Results We evaluated all patients who were referred to and eligible for outpatient CR between 2013 and 2018 at the San Francisco Veterans Health Administration. Patients who chose to attend facility-based CR and those who died within 30 days of hospitalization were excluded. Patients who chose to participate in HBCR received up to 9 telephonic coaching and motivational interviewing sessions over 12 weeks. All patients were followed through June 30, 2021. We used Cox proportional hazards regression models with inverse probability treatment weighting to compare mortality in HBCR participants versus nonparticipants. Of the 1120 patients (mean age 68, 98% male, 76% White) who were referred and eligible, 490 (44%) participated in HBCR. During a median follow-up of 4.2 years, 185 patients (17%) died. Mortality was lower among the 490 HBCR participants versus the 630 nonparticipants (12% versus 20%; P<0.01). In an inverse probability weighted Cox regression analysis adjusted for patient demographics and comorbid conditions, the hazard of mortality remained 36% lower among HBCR participants versus nonparticipants (hazard ratio, 0.64 [95% CI, 0.45-0.90], P=0.01). Conclusions Among patients eligible for CR, participation in HBCR was associated with 36% lower hazard of mortality. Although unmeasured confounding can never be eliminated in an observational study, our findings suggest that HBCR may benefit patients who cannot attend traditional CR programs.

Impact of Early COVID-19 Waves on Cardiac Rehabilitation Delivery in Australia: A National Survey

BACKGROUND

The novel coronavirus disease of 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic significantly disrupted health care, especially outpatient services such as cardiac rehabilitation (CR). We investigated the impact of early COVID-19 waves on the delivery of Australian CR programs, comparing this time period with usual practice prior to the pandemic (2019) and current practice (2021) once the early waves had subsided. Specifically, we aimed to understand how the delivery of programs during COVID-19 compared to usual practice.

METHODS

An anonymous online cross-sectional survey of Australian CR program staff was conducted, comprising three sections: program and respondent characteristics, COVID-19 impact on program delivery, and barriers to, and enablers of, program delivery. Respondents were asked to consider three key timepoints: 1) Pre-COVID-19 (i.e. usual practice in 2019), 2) Early COVID-19 waves (March-December 2020), and 3) Currently, at time of survey completion post early COVID-19 waves (May-July 2021).

RESULTS

Of the 314 Australian CR programs, 115 responses were received, of which 105 had complete data, representing a 33% response rate. All states and territories were represented. During early COVID-19 waves programs had periods of closure (40%) or reduced delivery (70%). The majority of programs reported decreased CR referrals (51.5%) and decreased participation (77.5%). The two core components of CR-exercise and education-were significantly impacted during early COVID-19 waves, affecting both the number and duration of sessions provided. Exercise session duration did not return to pre-pandemic levels (53.5 min compared to 57.7 min, p=0.02). The majority of respondents (77%) reported their CR program was inferior in quality to pre-pandemic and more organisational support was required across information technology, staffing, administration and staff emotional and social support.

CONCLUSION

Australian CR programs underwent significant change during the early COVID-19 waves, consistent with international CR reports. Fewer patients were referred and attended CR and those who did attend received a lower dose of exercise and education. It will be important to continue to monitor the long-term impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic to ensure CR programs return to pre-pandemic functioning and continue to deliver services in line with best practice and evidence-based recommendations.

Harnessing digital health to optimise the delivery of guideline-based cardiac rehabilitation during COVID-19: an observational study

BACKGROUND

The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the uptake of digital health interventions for the delivery of cardiac rehabilitation (CR). However, there is a need to evaluate these interventions.

METHODS

We examined the impact of an evidence-based, digital CR programme on medical, lifestyle and psychosocial outcomes. Delivered by an interdisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, the core components of this 12-week programme included lifestyle modification, medical risk factor management, psychosocial and behavioural change support. To support self-management, patients were provided with a Fitbit, a home blood pressure (BP) monitor and an interactive workbook. Patients received access to a bespoke web-based platform and were invited to attend weekly, online group-based supervised exercise sessions and educational workshops. Outcomes were assessed at baseline, end of programme and at 6-month follow-up.

RESULTS

Over a 3-month period, 105 patients (88% with coronary heart disease) were referred with 74% (n=77) attending initial assessment. Of these, 97% (n=75) enrolled in the programme, with 85% (n=64) completing the programme, 86% (n=55) of completers attended 6-month follow-up. Comparing baseline to end of programme, we observed significant improvements in the proportion of patients meeting guideline-recommended targets for physical activity (+68%, p<0.001), BP (+44%, p<0.001) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (+27%, p<0.001). There were significant reductions in mean weight (-2.6 kg, p<0.001). Adherence to the Mediterranean diet score improved from 5.2 to 7.3 (p<0.001). Anxiety and depression levels (Hospital Anxiety and Depression score) both reduced by more than 50% (p<0.001). The majority of these improvements were sustained at 6-month follow-up.

CONCLUSION

Outcomes from this study suggest that interdisciplinary digital CR programmes can be successfully implemented and help patients achieve guideline recommended lifestyle, medical and therapeutic targets.

The Role of Exercise-based Cardiac Rehabilitation in Heart Failure

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (EBCR) is a treatment modality for patients with heart failure (HF) that has withstood the test of time. It has continued to show benefits even in the current era of pharmacotherapeutics for HF. Participation in a multidisciplinary comprehensive EBCR programme reduces mortality and morbidity, has a multitude of physiological benefits, and improves cardiovascular risk factor control and quality of life. Despite this, historical barriers to enrolment and uptake remain. Strategies to overcome these, as well as alternative delivery methods of EBCR in HF patients, are emerging and include telerehabilitation, focus on special groups and emphasis on behavioural change. This review provides oversight on the modalities of exercise training in HF as well as their benefits and gives an overview of barriers to the utilisation of EBCR along with future progress in the field.

Remotely Delivered Cardiac Rehabilitation Exercise for Coronary Heart Disease: Nonrandomized Feasibility Study

BACKGROUND

Exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is recommended for coronary heart disease (CHD). However, poor uptake of and poor adherence to CR exercise programs have been reported globally. Delivering CR exercise classes remotely may remove some of the barriers associated with traditional hospital- or center-based CR.

OBJECTIVE

We have developed a bespoke platform, Eastern Corridor Medical Engineering Centre-Cardiac Rehabilitation (ECME-CR), to support remotely delivered CR exercise. This pilot trial sought to test the ECME-CR platform and examine the efficacy and feasibility of a remote CR exercise program compared to a traditional center-based program.

METHODS

In all, 21 participants with CHD were recruited and assigned to either the intervention or control group. Both groups performed the same 8-week exercise program. Participants in the intervention group took part in web-based exercise classes and used the ECME-CR platform during the intervention period, whereas participants in the control group attended in-person classes. Outcomes were assessed at baseline and following the 8-week intervention period. The primary outcome measure was exercise capacity, assessed using a 6-minute walk test (6MWT). Secondary outcomes included measurement of grip strength, self-reported quality of life, heart rate, blood pressure, and body composition. A series of mixed between-within subjects ANOVA were conducted to examine the mean differences in study outcomes between and within groups. Participant adherence to the exercise program was also analyzed.

RESULTS

In all, 8 participants (male: n=5; age: mean 69.7, SD 7.2 years; height: mean 163.9, SD 5.4 cm; weight: mean 81.6, SD 14.1 kg) in the intervention group and 9 participants (male: n=9; age: mean 69.8, SD 8.2 years; height: mean 173.8, SD 5.2 cm; weight: mean 94.4, SD 18.0 kg) in the control group completed the exercise program. Although improvements in 6MWT distance were observed from baseline to follow-up in both the intervention (mean 490.1, SD 80.2 m to mean 504.5, SD 93.7 m) and control (mean 510.2, SD 48.3 m to mean 520.6, SD 49.4 m) group, no significant interaction effect (F_1,14=.026; P=.87) nor effect for time (F_1,14=2.51; P=.14) were observed. No significant effects emerged for any of the other secondary end points (all P>.0275). Adherence to the exercise program was high in both the intervention (14.25/16, 89.1%) and control (14.33/16, 89.6%) group. No adverse events or safety issues were reported in either group during the study.

CONCLUSIONS

This pilot trial did not show evidence of significant positive effect for either the remotely delivered or center-based program. The 6MWT may not have been sufficiently sensitive to identify a change in this cohort of participants with stable CHD. This trial does provide evidence that remote CR exercise, supported with digital self-monitoring, is feasible and may be considered for individuals less likely to participate in traditional center-based programs.

INTERNATIONAL REGISTERED REPORT IDENTIFIER (IRRID)

RR2-10.2196/31855.

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.

Feasibility of Implementation and the Impact of a Digital Prehabilitation Service in Patients Undergoing Treatment for Oesophago-Gastric Cancer

BACKGROUND

Home-based and supervised prehabilitation programmes are shown to have a positive impact on outcomes in patients with oesophago-gastric (OG) cancer. The primary aim of this study was to establish the feasibility of delivering a digital prehabilitation service.

METHODS

Patients undergoing treatment for OG cancer with curative intent were recruited into the study. During the COVID-19 pandemic, patients were offered a digital prehabilitation service. Following the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, patients were also offered both a hybrid clinic-based in-person service and a digital service. Implementation and clinical metrics from the two prehabilitation models were compared.

RESULTS

31 of 41 patients accepted the digital service (75%). Of the people who started the digital programme, 3 dropped out (10%). Compliance with the weekly touchpoints was 86%, and the median length of programme was 12 weeks. Twenty-six patients enrolled in the in-person service. Two patients dropped out (10%). Average compliance to weekly touchpoints was 71%, and the median length of programme was 10 weeks. In the digital group, sit to stand (STS) increased from 14.5 (IQR 10.5-15.5) to 16 (IQR 16-22); p = 0.02. Median heart rate recovery (HRR) increased from 10.5 (IQR 7.5-14) to 15.5 (IQR 11-20) bpm; p = 0.24. There was a significant drop in distress (median 3 (IQR 0-5) to 1 (IQR 0-2); p = 0.04) and a small drop in anxiety (median 3 (0-5) to 2 (0-3); p = 0.22). There was no difference in the postoperative complication rate and length of hospital stay between the two groups.

DISCUSSION

This study has shown that digital prehabilitation can be delivered effectively to patients with OG cancer, with high engagement and retention rates. We observed improvements in some physical and psychological parameters with the digital service, with comparable clinical outcomes to the in-person service.

Top 50 cited articles on cardiac rehabilitation: A bibliometric and altmetric analysis study

Background/Aim: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death globally, with an estimated 18.6 million deaths each year. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) has positive effects on reducing the mortality and morbidity of CVD, so there is a growing interest in this field. The aim of this study was to analyze the top 50 cited articles in the field of CR. Methods: The Web of Science (WoS) database was searched for articles published between 1986 and 2021. A record was made of the following information for the bibliometric analysis: article title, year of publication, number of authors and their names, number of citations, citation index, journal of publication, impact factor, type of article, and source of funding. The altmetric attention score (AAS) was recorded using automatic software calculation. Results: The majority of articles were published in the journal “Circulation” (n=14) and the “Journal of the American College of Cardiology” (n=8). The country with the highest number of articles was the US (n=27), and the most cited author was P.A. Ades. Studies evaluating exercise-based rehabilitation, key components of CR, and secondary prevention were among the top cited articles. In terms of AAS, in addition to the titles mentioned, mobile health services that rely on communication technologies have also received attention. Conclusion: This study provides useful information for researchers interested in CR, including trends, topics of interest in the field, and potential research collaborations. It is intended to guide future, more comprehensive, and in-depth studies on CR.

Effect of Home-Based Cardiac Rehabilitation Program on Self-Efficacy of Patients With Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator

Introduction

For more effective control and treatment of cardiac dysrhythmias caused by diseases, ischemia, or other causes, an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) is used. One of the effective ways for secondary prevention is the home-based cardiac rehabilitation (HBCR) which nurses have an effective role in its implementation.

Objective

The study aimed to investigate the effect of implementing HBCR programs on the self-efficacy of patients with ICD.

Methods

This is a semi-experimental study conducted on 70 patients who received ICD in Shahid Chamran Heart Center of Isfahan University of Medical Sciences (IUMS) in 2021. The patients were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups and were introduced to the practical concepts of HBCR during four training sessions. In the following, 3-month follow-up and trainings were continued by home visits, telephone follow-up, and use of social messaging networks due to the conditions of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The data were analyzed with SPSS/21.

Results

The findings showed that performing HBCR programs was effective in improving the self-efficacy of patients with ICDs. A significant trend in the implementation of the HBCR programs in two groups was shown using chi-square test and independent t-test and variance with repeated measurements (p < .001). There was no significant difference in self-efficacy score in both groups at the beginning of the study (p < .056).

Conclusion

Considering the effectiveness of HBCR programs on improving the self-efficacy of patients with ICDs, it can be used in the educational care programs of healthcare workers and in the strategic policies of health care services.

Developing a group-based virtual education curriculum for cardiac rehabilitation and the associated toolkit to support implementation in Canada and across the globe

BACKGROUND

To overcome the many barriers faced by the long-lasting pandemic, the development of new ways to deliver cardiac rehabilitation (CR)'s components was needed.

OBJECTIVE

This mixed-methods study describes the process to create a virtual education curriculum and assess the level of user engagement and acceptability in CR participants.

METHODS

A 4-phase approach was used to develop the new virtual education curriculum for CR and collect feedback regarding patients' engagement with and acceptability of the curriculum in a convenience sample of 80 CR participants. Data were analyzed using a reflexive thematic analysis approach and mapped to the evidence-based implementation strategies, followed by stakeholder engagement. Considering all information gathered and applying best practices in patient education and curriculum development, a 16-week virtual education curriculum was established.

RESULTS

Five themes were identified on how the current education could be improved: focus on self-management, emphasize emotional wellbeing, improve facilitation, incorporate existing resources, and improve content flow. The recommendations associated with each theme informed the new curriculum and a tailored implementation plan to support the use of virtual education as part of routine care within the program. A toolkit that included a screening tool for comfort with/access to technology, patient-centered manuals with weekly learning plans, and a facilitator's manual was created. Overall, all recommended weekly education was completed by more than 70% of the participants, with greater acceptability.

CONCLUSIONS

The present study offers an example of a collaborative approach to tailoring strategies for the development of a new group-based virtual education model of CR.

Exercise modulates the immune system in cardiorespiratory disease patients: Implications for clinical practice during the COVID-19 pandemic

BACKGROUND

Patients with cardiorespiratory problems often suffer from systemic inflammation. Stress due to the disease and continuous inflammation can undermine the success of the rehabilitation program.

OBJECTIVE

This review has been undertaken primarily to understand the effectiveness of exercise training on the immune system in individuals undergoing cardiorespiratory rehabilitation and its implications for further management during the COVID-19 pandemic.

METHODS

Assessors analyzed related studies identified in the MEDLINE, PROQUEST, PUBMED, Cochrane Library, CINAHL, EMBASE, Google Scholar, Physiotherapy Evidence, and Science Direct databases. The studies were divided into groups focused on the effect of exercise on blood leukocytes, the anti-inflammatory effect, and the role of nutrition and exercise in resolving inflammation.

RESULTS

Twenty-eight studies were included in this review. The number of studies included in each section was as follows: the effects of exercise training on leukocytes in cardiorespiratory conditions (n = 8), anti-inflammatory effect (n = 6), and the role of nutrition and exercise in resolving inflammation (n = 14). The bias risk assessment showed poor internal validity; most included studies were assigned no and unclear descriptors.

CONCLUSIONS

Substantive evidence is presented that emphasizes the role of moderate-intensity exercise in boosting the immune system in patients with cardiorespiratory diseases. Exercise has anti-inflammatory effects that are vital for overall well-being and resolving longstanding inflammation. Individuals with an active lifestyle had a better pathogen immune response than more sedentary individuals. Our findings highlight the current need to investigate the long-term effects of cardiorespiratory rehabilitation programs.

What has cardiac rehabilitation looked like in the COVID-19 pandemic: Lessons learned for the future

The global coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic prompted widespread national shutdown, halting or dramatically reducing the delivery of non-essential outpatient services including cardiac rehabilitation (CR). Center-based CR services were closed for as few as two weeks to greater than one year and the uncertainty surrounding the duration of the lockdown phase prompted programs to consider programmatic adaptations that would allow for the safe and effective delivery of CR services. Among the actions taken to accommodate in person CR sessions included increasing the distance between exercise equipment and/or limiting the number of patients per session. Legislative approval of reimbursing telehealth or virtual services presented an opportunity to reach patients that may otherwise have not considered attending CR during or even before the pandemic. Additionally, the considerable range of symptoms and infection severity as well as the risk of developing long lasting, debilitating symptoms has complicated exercise recommendations. Important lessons from publications reporting findings from clinical settings have helped shape the way in which exercise is applied, with much more left to discover. The overarching aim of this paper is to review how programs adapted to the COVID-19 pandemic and identify lessons learned that have positively influenced the future of CR delivery.

Evaluating the effectiveness of a comprehensive patient education intervention in a hybrid model of cardiac rehabilitation: A pilot study

Objective

To evaluate the effectiveness of a comprehensive educational intervention in a hybrid model of cardiac rehabilitation in Spain during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

In a prospective pretest-posttest pilot study a pooled sample of patients attending hybrid cardiac rehabilitation in Spain received a culturally-adapted education intervention for 6 weeks. Participants completed surveys at pre- and post-rehabilitation assessing disease-related knowledge, health literacy, adherence to the Mediterranean Diet and self-efficacy. Physical activity was measured by number of steps per day using wearable activity tracking devices. Satisfaction with the educational materials was also evaluated by a survey with a 10 point Likert-type scale and yes/no and open-ended questions.

Results

Eighty-one(99%) participants completed both assessments. There was significant improvement in disease-related knowledge(p < 0.001), physical activity(p < 0.001), and adherence to the diet(p = 0.005) post-rehabilitation. The number of participants that were classified as having “high health literacy skills” increased by 17%. Post-rehabilitation knowledge was associated with education level (ß = 0.430; p = 0.001),pre-rehabilitation knowledge (ß = 0.510; p = 0.002), and high health literacy skills (ß = 0.489; p = 0.01). Educational materials were highly satisfactory to participants.

Conclusion

Significant increases in disease-related knowledge and health behaviors in patients attending hybrid models of cardiac rehabilitation are encouraging results that support the value of implementing comprehensive educational initiatives to programs in Spain.

Innovation

This work presents preliminary evidence of the effectiveness of the first comprehensive education intervention that is open access and culturally adapted to people living with cardiovascular disease in Spain.

The impact of modular cardiac rehabilitation on quality of life and exercise tolerance in patients with myocardial infarction and COVID-19 infection

Introduction

Acute myocardial infarction (AMI) remains one of the leading causes of death worldwide during cardiovascular diseases. An important step in the secondary prevention of recurrent myocardial infarction is cardiac rehabilitation (CR). However, with the onset of the global COVID-19 pandemic, the CR programs in many clinics were limited due to the quarantine measures. Knowledge about the effects of CR on quality of life and exercise tolerance in AMI patients with COVID is scarce.

Aim

To evaluate the use of a modular CR program on quality of life and exercise tolerance among post-AMI patients with COVID-19 recovery, and in those with no history of COVID-19 infection.

Material and methods

This study included 118 patients with or recovering from acute myocardial infarction. They were divided into 2 groups: the first group included 86 patients, who had slight "ground-glass opacity" changes on the computed tomography (CT) scans, and the second group comprised 32 patients, who had no history of coronavirus infection or no change on CT scan of the lungs during the pandemic. The CR program was modified due to the pandemic era.

Results

Physical tolerance increased in both groups after CR 3.6 months as compared to before the CR program (duration of training in seconds (p < 0.05), a 6-minute walk test (p < 0.05), the maximal oxygen consumption (VO2max) (p < 0.05), and the metabolic equivalent of task (MET) (p < 0.05)). Similarly, quality of life measures improved in both groups. Treatment satisfaction was higher in the first group at the beginning and the end of CR.

Conclusions

The modular CR program improves exercise capacity and quality of life with AMI and COVID-19 similar to that of patients without AMI. Patients after COVID-19 should undergo rehabilitation.