BPS endorses new statement about the role of psychologists in cardiac rehabilitation

The statement outlines the importance of addressing the psychological, emotional and social contribution to cardiac rehabilitation and the role of psychologists in supporting this journey for patients.

It states that there are well-established relationships documented between stress, anxiety, depression and increased risks of cardiovascular disease, and that cardiac rehabilitation is a key area where psychological input can provide significant benefits. With evidence showing that psychological factors such as anxiety and depression detrimentally affect engagement levels with rehabilitation, the BPS is pleased to lend its support to this important statement.

Currently only 52 per cent of patients eligible for cardiac rehabilitation take up the offer, compared to the current NHS Long Term Plan ambition of 85 per cent. Helping people to engage with cardiac rehabilitation by targeting the psychological factors underpinning disengagement such as fear, pessimism and hopelessness are integral to supporting rehabilitation goals and outcomes.

Dr Mark Griffiths, lead author of the statement and member of the BPS' Division of Clinical Psychology, said:

"We are delighted that the BPS has lent its support to this very important statement. We know that psychological factors often prevent people from engaging from the vital cardiac rehabilitation process, with a detrimental impact on their physical and mental health.

"Establishing clinical psychologists (or other suitably qualified practitioner psychologists) as core members of every cardiac rehabilitation team, is integral to support optimal engagement and rehabilitation outcomes for all patients. This statement of intent is very welcome, and now we now want to see guidelines developed to inform appropriate levels of psychologist staffing in cardiac rehabilitation teams, for the benefits of all patients."

Read the full statement from the BHF, BPS and ACP-UK.