The cardiac rehabilitation needs and preferences of women living in rural communities: a qualitative study of co-designing a women-focused cardiac rehabilitation program

Aim To identify the cardiac rehabilitation (CR) needs and preferences of women living in rural communities to inform the co-design of a women-focused web-based CR program. Methods Using a person-centred care and co-design approach, six 2-hour focus groups were conducted in-person or online across six rural regions of South Australia. Women with cardiovascular diseases who had completed a CR program were included. Discussions were directed using a semi-structured guide on the needs and preferences of women for different aspects of CR delivery. Data were transcribed verbatim, and thematic analysis was performed using NVivo. Results Nineteen women (mean age 65.1 years, ±12.3) participated in one of six focus groups. Six key themes emerged: (1) Navigating financial barriers to care; (2) Early education and support matter; (3) Recognising women’s heart health needs; (4) Empowering women through exercise and physical activity; (5) The power of connection: valuing professional and personal support; and (6) Integrating technology for accessible and flexible care. Conclusion Women expressed openness to using a web-based program to access and facilitate early CR participation. Tailored educational and exercise components, delivered through a financially viable model and supported by CR nurses, were identified as essential to meet the needs and preferences of women in rural areas. These findings provide critical insights for developing inclusive and sustainable CR programs that address the unique needs of women in rural settings.