Audit of Maori uptake of cardiac rehabilitation in Counties Manukau

Abstract

Background: Improving uptake of Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR) is a focus of our service. To facilitate this we have developed a range of programmes for patients to choose from. A previous audit in 2010 identified that Maori were significantly under accessing CR services compared to other ethnicities and our aim was to evaluate current Maori attendance. Methods: Between 1/1/13 and 1/1/14, we identified all Maori registered in ANZACS QI and using the CR tracking system we analysed contact with CR services. Results: 108 patients were identified with complete data. The majority were male (54%), mean age 57.9 AE 10.7 years, post-ACS (67%) and had received Phase I CR (79%). Admission LDL was 2.60 AE 1.25 (mean AE SD), 44% had Diabetes and 19% were current smokers. 62%, 36% and 2% opted for the Healthy Hearts group education programme, home programme (HGA) or CR clinic, respectively with 41% completing and 25% partially completing CR, 34% did not attend any programme. There was a low uptake (11%) of the hospital based CR exercise programme. There were no important differences between the demographic and risk characteristics of the patients who completed, partially completed or didn't attend CR. Conclusion: This audit provides an accurate picture of Maori attendance to CR showing good representation. Despite this, one third of Maori patients do not attend CR and there is still work to be done, particularly around structured exercise, to increase engagement and to provide accessible CR options for high risk populations.