Pulmonary rehabilitation: timing, location, and duration

Abstract

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs vary in terms of duration and location. Differences also exists in the patients who are judged eligible for rehabilitation. This article reviews the options clinicians have to organize programs in terms of who should be referred, when, where, and for how long. There are several risk factors for lack of uptake and non-adherence to programs. Logistical aspects are also an important barrier. In terms of election, patients with muscle dysfunction are likely the best candidates for exercise training. Patients with exercise-induced symptoms and those after exacerbations should also be referred.

Keywords: Duration; Exacerbation; Location; Muscle dysfunction; Pulmonary rehabilitation; Timing.