Perceptions and preferences of patients with cardiac conditions to the inclusion of virtual reality-based therapy with conventional cardiovascular rehabilitation: A qualitative study

Abstract

Background: Virtual reality-based therapy (VRBT) has been recently used in rehabilitation programs, as it can improve patient's adherence to treatment. However, patients' acceptance of VRBT has been scarcely investigated.

Objective: To qualitatively analyze the perceptions and preferences of patients about the inclusion of VRBT to a conventional cardiovascular rehabilitation program (CRP).

Methods: Fifteen patients from a randomized clinical trial participated in focus groups for qualitative assessment.

Results: Patients demonstrated good acceptance and satisfaction of VRBT. Physical and psychosocial benefits were highlighted, and patients reported the perception of higher exercise intensity in VRBT then when doing conventional training. In addition, the frequency of VRBT (once a week), associated with conventional treatment was reported as satisfactory. Cognitive aspects that influenced participation to the new approach were also raised by study participants.

Conclusion: Patients with cardiac conditions demonstrated satisfaction with the inclusion of VRBT in a conventional CRP, demonstrating that VRBT has the potential to be a new approach for this patient population, allowing training diversification. Benefits perceived by patients include physical, mental, and social aspects.

Trial registered: NCT04336306 (https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04336306).

Keywords: Cardiac rehabilitation; Physiotherapy; Qualitative research; Treatment adherence and compliance; Virtual reality exposure therapy.