Target Audience & Estimated Reading Time: HPA-OHT member organization leaders | 4 minutes
Why it Matters
Cardiovascular disease remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in Ontario, and cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is a proven intervention to improve patient outcomes, reduce hospital readmissions, and enhance quality of life. Recognizing the critical role of CR in the continuum of care, the Cardiac Rehab Ad Hoc Working Group within the Huron Perth and Area Ontario Health Team (HPA-OHT) has embarked on an ambitious initiative to expand access and standardize delivery of cardiac rehabilitation services across the region.
Dig Deeper
Cardiac rehabilitation is more than exercise, it’s a comprehensive program that includes education, risk factor management, psychosocial support, and lifestyle coaching. Evidence shows that patients who complete CR programs experience:
- 30% reduction in cardiovascular mortality
- Improved functional capacity and mental health
- Lower rates of hospital readmission
Despite these benefits, access to CR remains uneven throughout Huron Perth & Area and surrounding communities, with rural patients facing significant barriers such as travel distance and limited program availability.
The HPA-OHT Cardiac Rehabilitation Working Group, composed of local clinicians, administrators, and patient partners, is focused on creating a standardized model of care that ensures:
- Consistent referral pathways from acute care and primary care settings
- Hybrid delivery models combining in-person and virtual options
- Evidence-based protocols aligned with provincial and national guidelines
Key initiatives underway by this Working Group include:
- Mapping Current Services – A comprehensive inventory of existing CR programs and resources is being developed to identify gaps and opportunities for integration.
- Developing Standardized Protocols – Clinical pathways and documentation standards are being harmonized to ensure continuity of care across providers.
- Leveraging Technology – Virtual CR programs will be introduced to support remote monitoring, education, and exercise programming which are all critical for rural and underserved populations.
- Building Workforce Capacity – Training and education initiatives for healthcare professionals will ensure consistent delivery of CR services across the region.
Next Steps
The expansion and standardization of cardiac rehabilitation in Huron Perth and Area is a transformative step toward equitable cardiovascular care. By working collaboratively, we will reduce disparities, improve patient outcomes, and create a sustainable model that can serve as a blueprint for other regions.
Stay tuned for updates as we move forward with implementation.