Perceptions and Beliefs Associated with Enrolling in Pulmonary Rehabilitation in People with Chronic Respiratory Diseases: A Qualitative Study

Purpose: To explore the reasons people with chronic respiratory diseases (CRD) accept enrollment in pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) using a framework of health behaviour change, to ascertain which motivational processes resulted in the intention to enroll in PR. Methods: Semi-structured interviews informed by the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA) framework were conducted with individuals with CRD who were referred to for PR. Content analysis was performed. Results: Eleven participants accept PR ( n = 10), decline PR ( n = 1); COPD ( n = 5), interstitial lung disease ( n = 6); female ( n = 5), median age = 72 (range 35–84 years) completed the interviews. Four themes were identified: (1) communication, (2) extrinsic factors, (3) psychosocial factors, and (4) past experiences. Conclusions: Participants perceived enrollment in PR to be impacted by the information acquired from sources in addition to their healthcare providers, logistics associated with accessing PR, perception of their current capabilities, the belief that PR was their last resource for improvement and past experiences regarding knowledge about exercise and symptoms. To increase enrollment in PR programs, healthcare providers should prioritize effective communication, address concerns and misconceptions, consider accessibility, and understand/address psychosocial factors such as motivation and belief systems.