Abstract

In recent years, a growing number of studies have demonstrated the efficacy of alternative models to centre-based pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) such as telerehabilitation or home-based unsupervised PR, as a perspective to improve accessibility and adherence. In addition, other studies have shown the relevance of maintenance PR programs to improve long-term benefits. However, these programs are still poorly implemented in real life settings. In order to anticipate patient adherence to new models of PR and to inform future directions, we conducted a survey to assess patients views on PR models and maintenance PR programs. The survey (37 questions) was circulated to members of the French national respiratory patient association F.F.A.A.I.R. and within five PR centres. A total of 298 COPD patients responded. Among them, 222 (75%) had ever took part in a PR program, mainly in inpatient setting (91%). Our results show a global satisfaction with current PR programs for these patients, emphasizing the importance of preserving the existing. Nevertheless, given the main difficulties reported by the ?ever PR? patients (e.g. being physically separated from loves ones for 21%) and the main barriers provided by the ?never PR? ones (e.g. fear of sharing a double room for 27%), the diversification of PR settings appears as a perspective to increase efficacy and access of current programs (e.g. telerehabilitation). Furthermore, in the light of the large heterogeneity of answers related to maintenance programs, personalization in every aspects (professionals, content, setting, duration) seems to be the key to success in the implementation of such programs and in achieving high level of patient satisfaction.