The availability of exercise rehabilitation programs in hemodialysis centres in Ontario

Abstract

Background: Exercise training is effective at promoting physical fitness, cardiovascular outcomes, and quality of life amongst persons with chronic kidney disease. To our knowledge, no published data exist to date on the prevalence of exercise programs offered to Canadians undergoing dialysis. The study purpose was to characterize existing exercise programs in hemodialysis centres in the province of Ontario.

Methods: An online survey was created and distributed to 95 dialysis facilities across Ontario.

Results: There was a 61% survey response rate. Only eight facilities offered exercise programs, which included intradialytic and cardiac rehabilitation programs. Lack of funding (n = 22), lack of human resources (n = 18), and lack of equipment (n = 17) were reported as the most commonly perceived barriers of offering an exercise program.

Conclusion: Although exercise has been shown to be effective, prevalence of programs is low. Work is underway to administer the online survey tool to dialysis programs across Canada.