Heart disease is a leading cause of death in Australia. Cardiac rehabilitation can prolong life in those with heart disease. Unfortunately there is little consistency in the way programs are delivered, particularly when cardiac rehabilitation is started and type of exercise prescribed. This has contributed to a lack of patient engagement, particularly in patients from marginalised groups. This is a missed opportunity to improve outcomes in patients post acute coronary syndrome. By identifying patients at high risk of further events, such as diabetics, there is an opportunity to implement early exercise and education which could improve engagement in rehabilitation, address uncontrolled risk factors and prevent further cardiovascular events. Findings in this study will have a direct impact on health outcomes in the 57,000 Australians who experience a heart attack every year.
Last updated17 January 2023