Patient-Provider Communication Regarding Referral to Cardiac Rehabilitation

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Health Services Research
• Patient Communication

Background:

• Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is crucial for post-cardiac event recovery.
• Understanding factors influencing CR participation is vital for improving patient outcomes.
• Effective patient-provider communication is a potential determinant of CR uptake.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patient-provider communication dynamics in the CR referral process.
• To identify specific communication aspects that predict CR participation.
• To understand patient perceptions of discussions regarding CR attendance.

Main Methods:

• Semi-structured individual interviews with 31 eligible CR patients.
• Grounded analysis of audiotaped and transcribed interviews using N6 software.
• Exploration of themes including illness perceptions, provider encouragement, timing, and referral ease.

Main Results:

• Patient self-advocacy was associated with CR attendance.
• Non-attenders tended to minimize illness severity and faced enrollment obstacles.
• Healthcare provider's (HCP) facilitation of enrollment was more influential than referral strength.

Conclusions:

• Effective communication and active patient engagement are critical for CR participation.
• Addressing patient illness perceptions and overcoming enrollment barriers are essential.
• Healthcare providers should focus on facilitating the enrollment process to enhance CR uptake.