Promoting Diversity in Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs at Community Hospitals.

Abstract

Background: Although comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an effective treatment for cardiovascular diseases, its implementation in Japan remains insufficient. Following the 2022 Basic Act on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention, each prefecture has established specific targets.

Methods and results: We report our experience implementing and managing CR programs across hospitals of different sizes in Yamaguchi Prefecture, Japan, including Tokuyama Medical Association Hospital (initiated in 2019), Mitajiri Hospital (initiated in 2022), and Yamaguchi Prefectural Grand Medical Center. Hospital size and functionality correlated with the diversity and number of healthcare professionals available to provide CR services. In mixed-care hospitals, both inpatient and outpatient CR participants were older compared with acute-care hospitals. Insurance reimbursement calculations and bed-type restrictions affected CR service delivery. The CR team exemplifies interprofessional collaboration in cardiovascular care.

Conclusions: Even without all the necessary professional roles, patients can benefit significantly from CR implemented using available resources. Building effective organizations requires embracing diversity and enabling each profession to demonstrate its expertise while ensuring the psychological safety of team members.