Purpose: This PhD study explores the perspectives and experiences of people who do not use existing cardiac resources following a myocardial
infarction (MI)/‘heart attack’, and of their family members/friends. How might the system of post-MI support be improved to
help more people care for their heart instead of ‘voting with their feet’?
Background: A large proportion of post-MI people, and particularly certain demographic groups, do not attend Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR)—the
main support programme following an MI/‘heart attack’, or Cardiac Support Groups (CSGs)—the main community-based resource.
Research indicates that post-MI people experience difficulties recovering after an MI and undertaking secondary prevention
measures, and family members/carers experience difficulty supporting this process. Little is known or understood about the
substantial ‘non-participant’ group.
Methods: Qualitatative study in Lothian region, Scotland. In-depth interviews with 27 post-MI ‘non-participants’ identified by screening
questionnaire from the wider post-MI population, and 17 family members/friends.
Findings and Implications: Insight is given into the perspectives of people who did not use CR and/or a CSG about the reasons for non-use and their experiences
of post-MI rehabilitation/recovery and managing CHD without these resources. Implications of the findings in terms of these
specific resources and the current model of post-MI support are discussed. Suggestions are made for ways that a more integrated
post-MI support system might cater better for the needs of people who otherwise may end up outside the system without the
support they require.
Presentation slides available from: http://www.integratedcarenetwork.org/Sweden2008/slides/01-03-jackson.ppt