[French survey of patients on current and future pulmonary rehabilitation programs].

Abstract

Introduction: Over recent years, a growing number of studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of alternative models to centre-based pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) such as tele-PR or home-based unsupervised PR, offering perspectives for improved accessibility and adherence. Other studies have demonstrated the relevance and long-term benefits of maintenance PR programs. However, they remain poorly implemented in real-life settings. In order to encourage patient adherence to new PR models and to guide future orientations, we conducted a survey assessing patients' views on PR models and maintenance programs.

Method: The survey (37 questions) was circulated to COPD patients of the French national respiratory patient F.F.A.A.I.R network and in five specialised PR centres.

Results: Among the 298 respondents, 75% had previously taken part in a PR program, mainly in hospital settings (91%), with a high degree of satisfaction. The main barriers to PR were being physically separated from their loved ones (21%) and fears of having to share a double room (47%). Regarding maintenance PR programs, patients expressed diversified opinions, in terms of ideal duration and frequency of follow-up, format of follow-up (home-based, telephone, videoconference) and type of professional involved.

Conclusions: Diversified PR settings offer perspectives to increase access and improve the effectiveness of current programs. Furthermore, comprehensive personalization (professionals involved, content, setting, duration) seems to be the key to success in concrete implementation and achievement of patient satisfaction.