Cardiac rehabilitation series: Canada

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease is a major cause of death and illness in Canada.
• Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs are established but face low participation rates (34%).
• Access to CR is limited for under-represented groups, with barriers including lack of referral and travel.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current state of cardiac rehabilitation in Canada.
• To identify barriers to CR participation and strategies for improvement.
• To highlight national initiatives for enhancing CR quality and access.

Main Methods:

• Review of existing literature and clinical practice guidelines for CR in Canada.
• Analysis of participation rates and identified barriers to CR.
• Examination of national policy positions and quality improvement initiatives.

Main Results:

• Despite proven effectiveness, CR participation in Canada remains low.
• Key barriers include insufficient physician referrals, geographical distance, and perceived low need.
• National efforts are underway, including policy changes and quality indicators, to improve CR.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing CR access and participation in Canada requires addressing systemic barriers and promoting wider referral.
• National quality indicators and registries are crucial for monitoring and improving CR delivery.
• International collaboration aims to advance cardiovascular prevention and rehabilitation globally.