History of cardiac rehabilitation with an emphasis placed on the program at La Crosse, Wisconsin

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the historical trends and the future direction of Cardiac Rehabilitation (CR). From an identified group of 27, 14 prominent leaders of CR responded to the questionnaire designed by the investigator. The history of the La Crosse Cardiac Rehabilitation Program (LCRP), from 1970-1980, was also recorded and discussed. Information was obtained by reviewing the minutes from the Executive Board Meetings and by consulting Dr. Philip Wilson, the Executive Director. A comparison of CR programs from the questionnaire and the LCRP was obtained. The respondents discussed their personal backgrounds, contributions, program development and their opinions concerning the future of CR. The future of LCRP was projected by Dr. Wilson and the Unit Directors within the La Crosse Exercise Program. Regarding the questionnaire responses, all data received was subjectively analyzed by the researcher.