Who is the Program For?
In general, pulmonary rehabilitation programs are suitable for people who have chronic lung disease and who have symptoms of dyspnoea and/or fatigue. Partners or caregivers can be encouraged to come and provide support.
Specific eligibility criteria are outlined in the table below:
Eligibility Criteria |
|
Include patients who: |
- Have chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or other respiratory conditions.
- Are recovering from an acute exacerbation.
- Are willing to participate (even if they are current smokers).
|
|
Exclude patients who: |
- Have severe cognitive impairment.
- Have severe psychotic disturbance.
- Have a relevant infectious disease.
|
|
Exclude patients from the exercise component if they have: |
- Musculoskeletal or neurological disorders that prevent exercise.
- Unstable cardiovascular disease (e.g. unstable angina, aortic valve disease, unstable pulmonary hypertension).
|
Transport can be a barrier for attending pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
Suggestions for transport include:
- Community transport.
- Department of Veteran Affairs transport.
- Local council options.
- Hospital cars.
- Voluntary drivers.
- Car pooling.
- Taxi subsidy support scheme.
- Red Cross.
- Use of project funding for transport.
- Disability permits.
For those patients who are able to drive to the program, advice on car parking facilities should be provided.
|
