[Prescription and Utilization of Sports Therapy Programs following Cardiac Rehabilitation 2006-2013]

Physical exercise interventions are well accepted and widely used in cardiac rehabilitation programs. To ensure long-lasting effects on physical fitness and the maintenance of work ability a subsequent transfer to rehabilitation sport programs following cardiac rehabilitation is intended in a timely manner. The aim of the present study is to evaluate prescription and utilization rates of rehabilitation sport programs following cardiac rehabilitation.

The present paper analyzes referral rates and the actual utilization of those programs in patients who had a cardiac rehabilitation in the years 2006-2013 using insurance data of the German pension fund.

Overall, reductions in the prescription of rehabilitation sport programs can be observed. In 2013 55.7% (m) and 62.6% (w) of patients received a prescription for rehabilitation sport programs following cardiac rehabilitation. In contrast to declining prescription rates from 64.2 to 55.7% (m) and 68.0 to 62.6% (w) an increase in sports participation between 3-7% can be observed.

Overall, participation rates between 9.7% and 22.5% (2012) seem not sufficient to promote long-term physical activity behavior change. Next to our evaluation, determinants and barriers for program participation should be investigated.