Variability and Challenges in Pulmonary Rehabilitation Practices across India: Insights from a Nationwide Survey

Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is vital for managing chronic respiratory diseases. This study aimed to assess PR practices in India, focusing on quality standards, provider affiliations, service offerings, and structural components. A survey was conducted among Indian cardiopulmonary physiotherapists via WhatsApp, Facebook, and Gmail, covering demographics, structural, process, and outcome quality indicators, and PR delivery challenges. Of 50 respondents, 54% were affiliated with educational institutions, and 46% with private establishments. Significant variability in PR practices was observed, primarily in urban areas. Key challenges included limited awareness, accessibility issues, inadequate interdisciplinary teamwork, and lack of standardization. Structural elements varied, with inconsistent team compositions and uneven resource distribution. Only 36% of centers conducted regular audit meetings, and many lacked essential emergency equipment. The survey highlights the need for standardized protocols and national guidelines to improve PR service consistency and quality in India. Emphasizing multidisciplinary teams, regular audits, and comprehensive data collection can enhance PR delivery and outcomes. Further research is needed to develop robust, evidence-based PR programs across diverse settings in India.