Uptake of Cardiac Rehabilitation in Te Whatu Ora – Counties Manukau During the Pandemic

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is an evidence-based range of interventions to support people with several cardiac issues. The impact the COVID-19 pandemic created many challenges for health services and communities. Using All New Zealand Acute Coronary Syndrome Quality Improvement (ANZAC-QI) CR database this study tracked referral, mode, level engagement from 2013 2023. Over 10 years, 9,134 referrals were identified, a steadily decreasing number every year (1,040 in 2023 vs 672 2022; 35% decrease). majority (70%) was male; mean age males 66 females 67 years; ethnicity Māori 12%, Pacific 25%, Indian others 51%. Attendance any program 71%, 600% increase clinics group interventions. average uptake exercise 24%; compared Euro/others (61% 71% 73%, p>0.001); younger (<60 66% older >61 p>0.001) least likely attend, no gender differences (male Female 69%, p=NS). There has been significant decline over last shift group-based education individualised clinic contacts. Uptake programs remains low. Novel patients have implemented.