Cardiac Rehabilitation: Perspectives from Singapore

ABSTRACT

Exercise-basedcardiac rehabilitation (EBCR) is a well-established multidisciplinary form of treatment for the majority of cardiovascular diseases. It has been shown to reduce cardiovascular mortality and morbidity as well as improve risk factor control, quality of life, mental wellbeing and physical fitness. Despite these proven benefits, EBCR has historically faced multiple challenges such as poor uptake, high dropout rates and low referral rates. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has thrust technology into focus and facilitated the use of telehealth in EBCR. This presentation provides an opportunity to learn about the provision of EBCR within government restructured hospitals in Singapore, as well as the transition from a traditional face-to-face service to the utilisation of remote methods in changing perspectives of patients and healthcare providers alike.