Taiwan cardiac rehabilitation rates for heart attack patients reach only 49%

Recent data from the National Health Insurance Administration reveals that only 49% of eligible acute myocardial infarction patients in Taiwan received cardiac rehabilitation within six months of discharge in 2024. While opening blocked arteries and installing stents are critical, medical experts emphasize that cardiac rehabilitation is essential to prevent recurrence, re-hospitalization, and death.

Research indicates that cardiac rehabilitation can reduce the risk of cardiovascular death by nearly 25% and the risk of secondary myocardial infarction or re-hospitalization by approximately 20%. European guidelines suggest that rehabilitation should begin early, ideally within 14 to 30 days of the acute event.

Among major hospitals treating over 100 eligible patients, Far Eastern Memorial Hospital reported the highest rehabilitation rate at 94.8%. Other notable institutions include Mackay Memorial Hospital (82.5%), National Taiwan University Hospital (78.2%), Chimei Hospital (75.2%), and Show Wann Hospital (73.2%). Experts note that disparities in rehabilitation rates among medical centers may be due to clinical workload and the need for specialized personnel to guide patients through supervised exercise and nutritional programs.