Journal of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation and prevention
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J Cardiopulm Rehabil Prev · May 2012
Multicenter Study Comparative StudyPerceptions of cardiac specialists and rehabilitation programs regarding patient access to cardiac rehabilitation and referral strategies.
Access to cardiac rehabilitation (CR) remains at approximately 30%, despite a national target of 70%. This study evaluated cardiac specialist and CR program perceptions of CR access and referral strategies. ⋯ Some of the least frequently used referral strategies were perceived as, and are also empirically demonstrated to be, most effective. Broader implementation of these strategies, while better-resourcing CR programs, may improve the continuum of care for cardiac patients.