The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced pulmonary rehabilitation enrollment from 108 patients in 2019 to 36 in 2023, while increasing program duration from 93 to 177 days.
Observational
No
How did the COVID-19 pandemic affect enrollment, duration, and clinical outcomes of pulmonary rehabilitation in patients with heart and lung disease?
The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced enrollment and extended the duration of pulmonary rehabilitation programs, highlighting the need for adaptive strategies to maintain accessibility and clinical benefits.
Abstract Rationale Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is vital for managing chronic heart and lung diseases, improving functional capacity and quality of life. Compliance with PR is crucial but often influenced by social and environmental factors. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced significant challenges, including social isolation and healthcare disruptions, impacting PR participation and adherence. This study examines the pandemic’s effects on PR programs and patient outcomes. Method: This IRB-approved retrospective analysis (2019-2023) evaluated a single-center PR program. Key parameters included patient enrollment, program duration, clinical outcomes (6MWD, FEV1, CAT score), and tobacco use trends to assess the pandemic’s impact on PR. Results Patient Enrollment: Declined sharply in 2020 (N = 46) vs. 2019 (N = 108), remaining low in 2023 (N = 36). Program Duration: Increased from 93 days (2019) to 177 days (2023), reflecting pandemic adaptations. Clinical Outcomes: 6MWD improvements varied, lowest in 2022 (123.2 ft, 14%) and highest in 2023 (277.1 ft, 34%). FEV1 improvements were modest (0.06% in 2020 to 0.79% in 2023). CAT scores showed minimal changes. Tobacco Use: Current smokers decreased from 6.5% (2019) to 2.8% (2023), while former smokers peaked at 88.9% (2021). Conclusion The COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted PR programs, reducing enrollment and extending durations. Despite challenges, adaptive strategies may have mitigated some effects, as seen in improved 6MWD in 2023. Reduced tobacco use suggests pandemic-related behavioral changes. These findings highlight the need for innovative, patient-centered PR approaches to address social determinants and ensure accessibility during public health crises. Future research should focus on long-term outcomes and strategies to enhance compliance in post-pandemic rehabilitation. This abstract is funded by: None
Dhakal et al. (2026) conducted an observational in chronic heart and lung diseases. COVID-19 pandemic vs. Pre-pandemic (2019) was evaluated on Patient enrollment, program duration, clinical outcomes (6MWD, FEV1, CAT score), and tobacco use trends. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly reduced pulmonary rehabilitation enrollment from 108 patients in 2019 to 36 in 2023, while increasing program duration from 93 to 177 days.