Utilization of phase II cardiac rehabilitation in Veterans Administration patients.

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is underutilized across the United States. Reported national average varies from 14-35% after acute myocardial infraction and 31% after coronary artery bypass grafting surgery. No study to date has examined the utilization of CR in eligible veteran population. In this retrospective study, computerized veteran medical records at a single Veterans Administration (VA) hospital were screened between January 1, 2006 and December 31, 2009. Patients who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were surveyed telephonically and asked a series of questions relating to delivery and utilization of phase II CR. Data was collected using a pre-printed questionnaire and patient responses were number coded. Utilization rate of phase II CR in veterans was noted to be 21%. Common reasons reported for underutilization of CR included time and distance problems, orthopedic- and stroke-related muscle weakness and lack of motivation. Participation in Phase II CR led to better adherence to exercise long term. Also, 65-70% of the veterans expressed interest in a tailored home based CR program. CR is underutilized in eligible veterans. Compliance could possibly be improved if the veterans were offered a tailored CR program.