Understanding barriers to advancing in cardiac rehabilitation

A Multi-centred Exploratory Study Investigating the Determinants of Progression From Phase III to Phase IV Cardiac Rehabilitation in Underrepresented Populations

Observational Manchester Metropolitan University · NCT05784272

This study is trying to find out what stops people, especially from underrepresented groups, from moving on to the next level of heart rehab after completing phase III.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorManchester Metropolitan University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Caerleon, Gwent and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05784272 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to identify the factors that limit progression from phase III to IV cardiac rehabilitation among underrepresented populations in the UK. Participants currently in phase III cardiac rehab will complete questionnaires to assess their reasons for or against continuing to phase IV, alongside demographic and socioeconomic data. Additionally, semi-structured interviews will be conducted with a convenience sample of both those who initiate and those who do not initiate phase IV rehabilitation to gain deeper insights into their experiences and barriers. The study focuses on addressing the disparities in participation, particularly among ethnic minorities and females.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals over 18 years old who are currently participating in phase III cardiac rehabilitation and belong to underrepresented groups, such as females and ethnic minorities.

Not a fit: Patients with unstable coronary heart disease or significant comorbidities that contraindicate exercise training will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strategies for increasing participation in long-term cardiac rehabilitation, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited data on long-term phase IV cardiac rehabilitation uptake, previous studies have highlighted the need for targeted strategies to improve participation among underrepresented groups, indicating a potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* • Those participating in phase III cardiac rehabilitation and nearing successful completion of the programme

  * Subjects capable of giving informed consent
  * \>18 years old
  * Clinically stable
  * Successful completion of an NHS commissioned hospital or community based phase III programme
  * Belong to one of the groups being investigated: Underrepresented groups based on the NACR report, i.e. females and ethnic minorities (defined as all people except those in the "White" ethnic group in Great Britain) (22)

Exclusion Criteria:

* • Unstable/uncontrolled coronary heart disease

  * Those presenting with any significant comorbidities or contraindications to exercise testing or training in accordance with the American College of Sports Medicine (11)

Where this trial is running

Caerleon, Gwent and 2 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Cardiovascular DiseasesCardiovascularRehabilitationUnderepresented groups
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.