Using person-centred approaches to improve access to comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation has significant benefits for patients with cardiovascular disease in terms of physical health and psychosocial well-being. Comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation programmes comprise graduated exercise, health education, psychological support, advice on preventive medicines, and stress management. However, service provision in the UK is inconsistent. Not all eligible patients are referred to cardiac rehabilitation programmes, and there are inequities in patient access linked to socio-economic status, gender, ethnic background, mental health issues, age and frailty. A person-centred approach would improve equity of access to cardiac rehabilitation programmes and ensure that all patients receive a programme of cardiac rehabilitation that is tailored to their needs and preferences. This article outlines the core components of a cardiac rehabilitation programme, discusses inequities in patient access, and suggests person-centred approaches that nurses can use in cardiac rehabilitation and other healthcare settings.