Health Beliefs of Patients With Coronary Heart Disease Enrolled in a Cardiac Exercise Program

This study examined the issue of compliance in a cardiac rehabilitation program using the Health Belief Model (HBM). The purpose of the study was to describe patient perceptions of HBM variables (perceived seriousness, perceived susceptibility, perceived barriers, perceived benefits, and general health motivation) and self-efficacy at various time points while enrolled in a cardiac exercise program. Health beliefs regarding coronary heart disease and perceived self-efficacy of the cardiac exercise program were elicited by questionnaire from 72 subjects enrolled for one to 24 months in one of the CardioPulmonary Rehabilitation Institute (CAPRI) King County, Washington sites. Subjects had a history of one or more myocardial infarctions, coronary artery bypass surgery, or both. Subjects who perceived benefits of the cardiac exercise program had higher levels of general health motivation and self-efficacy. Subjects who perceived more benefits of exercise noted fewer barriers to attendance. The most important benefits of exercise were increased stamina, medical supervision, and forced regular participation. The most important barriers to attending exercise sessions were the early morning schedule, conflict with other activities, and transportation. No significant relationships were noted between time in CAPRI and HBM variables and self-efficacy. This study supports the usefulness of identifying barriers and benefits of a cardiac exercise program that affect patient compliance.