Barriers to paediatric cardiac rehabilitation among congenital heart diseases in twin cities of Pakistan: A cross sectional survey

Abstract

Background: Congenital Heart Disease (CHD) presents significant physical and psychological challenges for affected individuals and their families.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to identify the barriers to paediatric cardiac rehabilitation.

Methods: Descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted on 200 parents of patients with congenital disease in 1 year from 2022 to 2023. The study included biological parents of patients aged from birth to 12 years who had a medical history of congenital heart diseases such as cardiac myopathies, septal defects, and valvular defects. Patients with other congenital disorders were not part of the study. After taking ethical approval with ethical approval number: Riphah/RCRS/REC/01447, data was collected through cardiac rehabilitation barrier scale and analyzed by SPSS 21.

Results: The age distribution revealed that 94 (47%) participants from birth to 4 years, 68 (34%) were with 5-8 years, and 38 (19%) were with 9-12 years. 124 (62%) were male, while 76 (38%) were female, 112 (56%) had history of surgery while 88 (44%) had not. 52(26%) were strongly agree with the barriers of Ability to travel 81(40.5%). Work responsibilities 75(37.5%), Poor transportation 85(42.5%), long Distance 85(42.5%), Cost of the rehabilitation programs 68(34%).

Conclusion: The study concluded that the major barriers to paediatric cardiac rehabilitation were work responsibilities in addition to overall cost of treatment and travel.