Virtual PREHAB Study for Patients Undergoing TAVI

The Virtual PREHAB program begins with a virtual health care team assessment. The physiotherapist will support patients in identifying ways to safely engage in home-based physical activities and in their neighborhoods. Additional weekly 30-minute telephone consultations with the physiotherapist, nurse, and dietitian are provided as well as three 30-minute online consultations are provided; telephone calls will replace these online consults if the patient does not have internet access. Telephone and/or online consults with participants will monitor the progression of the individual through the program, review patient materials, review medication changes, as well as provide recommendations to adopting a physically active lifestyle, diet, well-being, smoking, or other supports available to the patient. Medication changes are monitored by a nurse and any necessary medication recommendations involve the program's medical director, the patient's family physician, and TAVI team.

In Nova Scotia, patients are referred to the TAVI program. The TAVI health care team, consisting of a cardiac surgeon, cardiologist, nurse, and geriatric team conduct patient assessments and provide guidance and resources on self management.Once patient assessments are completed, patients are discussed at a multidisciplinary team meeting. When a patient is accepted for TAVI, they are placed on a waiting list which lasts for 3-6 months depending on urgency.