Women's preferences for cardiac rehabilitation program model: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Rehabilitation Medicine
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is effective but often fails to meet women's needs.
• Innovative CR models have been developed to better suit female patients.
• Understanding adherence, satisfaction, and preferences in different CR models is crucial for improving women's cardiovascular health outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe adherence to CR model allocation among female patients.
• To assess patient satisfaction with different CR models (mixed-sex, women-only, home-based).
• To identify women's preferences for CR program delivery.

Main Methods:

• Tertiary analysis of a randomized controlled trial involving female patients randomized to mixed-sex, women-only, or home-based CR.
• Data collected via surveys, CR intake assessments, and CR charts from six hospitals.
• Follow-up surveys were mailed six months post-randomization to assess adherence and satisfaction.

Main Results:

• 169 women were randomized; 116 completed follow-up. 26.6% deviated from their allocated CR model, with home-based CR showing the lowest adherence (45.4%).
• High overall satisfaction (mean=4.23/5) was reported across all models.
• Women-only programs were perceived as more comfortable and less competitive. Patients equally preferred mixed-sex and women-only CR over home-based, favoring the model they attended.

Conclusions:

• Female patients exhibit high satisfaction with various CR models but show a preference for supervised programs.
• CR program allocation decisions should prioritize patient preferences and consider session timing.
• Tailoring CR models to women's needs and preferences can enhance engagement and adherence.