Project: Using the World Wide Web to Deliver a Cardiac Rehabilitation Program to Patients at Home

Health Infostructure Support Program

Background

Heart disease is a major cause of morbidity and mortality in British Columbia, and the leading cause of death in Canada. In 1991-92, more than 19% of all-inpatients days in Canada, i.e. 8 million, were for the treatment of cardiovascular disease. Patients with heart disease have shorter hospitalizations, and may spend months on a waiting list for open heart surgery or other cardiac interventions. Patients have less time in hospitals to receive information, support, and help with life-style change. The majority of patients, either waiting or recovering from open heart surgery, may have no access to cardiac rehabilitation, information and support.

Project Description

This proposal describes a pilot project for delivering cardiac rehabilitation programs through the Internet directly into patients' homes in urban, rural and remote areas of British Columbia. The overall goal of this proposal is to move closer to the provision of patient information and supportive care particularly to rural patients through new technology.

Project Funding under HISP: $150,576.00

Project Management: St. Paul's Hospital

For further information contact:

Dr. Joanna Bates
St. Paul's Hospital
1081 Burrard Street
Vancouver, British Columbia
V6Z 1Y6
Tel: (604) 806-8270
Fax: (604) 822-6061
jbates@interchange.ubc.ca