Engaging women with lived experience in tailoring educational resources for cardiovascular rehabilitation

Women are consistently less likely than men to be referred to, enroll in, attend, or complete cardiac rehabilitation (CR) programs, despite having similar or greater need. This underrepresentation has been linked to multiple factors, including logistical barriers, psychosocial concerns, and educational resources that do not reflect women's specific preferences, learning styles, or lived experiences. This study aimed to engage women with lived experience (WwLE) in collaboratively refining CR educational materials and to identify modifications to improve content, format, and dissemination.

Guided by the International Association for Public Participation (IAP2) spectrum (ranging from informing to empowering stakeholders) and the Pride in Patient Engagement in Research (PiPER) toolkit (which outlines patient roles, support, and shared decision-making), 11 WwLE participated in five sequential workshops. Each workshop was structured to increase participant involvement in decision-making - moving from providing feedback (Inform/Consult) to co-design (Involve/Collaborate) and final prioritization (Empower). A trained WwLE facilitated the sessions. Engagement was assessed using PEIRS-22 scores, attendance, and satisfaction surveys. Suggested modifications were recorded and categorized.

Engagement was high (mean PEIRS-22 score: 87.6 ± 12.8/100.0), with stable attendance during the first four workshops and peak involvement during "Consult." Participation declined in the final "Empower" session due to scheduling conflicts; however, PEIRS-22 scores remained high, indicating meaningful engagement. Five priorities emerged: improving accessibility; integrating storytelling; ensuring diverse representation; using multi-format delivery (text, audio, video); and expanding dissemination through community and digital channels.

Engagement of WwLE in resource development enhances the relevance and usability of CR educational materials, which may help address women's lower participation rates.

CR programs and policymakers should incorporate patient engagement frameworks to co-develop educational resources, ensure diversity in content, and tailor dissemination strategies. Implementing these approaches may improve women's uptake, adherence, and outcomes in CR.