Introducing a mental health educational package guide for low-socioeconomic status cardiac rehabilitation patients in Vermont: A survey on concerns, needs assessment, and prioritized behavioral goals

Author

Althea Jem Darbin Tapales, University of VermontFollow
Diann E. Galeema, University of Texas Medical BranchFollow

Date of Completion

2025

Document Type

Article

Department

Vermont Center on Behavior and Health

Faculty Advisor/Sponsor

Diann E. Galeema, PhD

Keywords

cardiac rehabilitation, low socioeconomic status, cardiovascular disease, mental health shortage, package guide, case management

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., with significant disparities in morbidity and mortality, particularly among low-socioeconomic status (low-SES) groups. These disparities are often linked to modifiable behaviors, and outcomes following serious cardiac events improve when these behaviors are addressed. Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) offers a promising platform for behavior change. In collaboration with the University of Vermont Cardiac Rehabilitation Center, this study aimed to identify barriers to CR participation in low-SES patients, with a focus on sex differences in smoking cessation and depression/anxiety symptom reduction. Data were derived from a randomized controlled trial (n=209) examining case managers (CM) and financial incentives (FI) to increase CR attendance in lower-SES patients. Analyses of secondary outcomes, including behavioral goals, concerns, and needs assessments, revealed that females prioritized anxiety/depression symptom reduction, while males prioritized smoking cessation. These findings highlight the diverse needs within this population, with sex differences in mental health concerns. In response, a mental health educational package, including apps and provider lists, was developed to address these needs and enhance CR participation. Feedback indicated that this resource holds potential for improving mental health support, which may increase CR engagement and adherence in low-SES patients.

Recommended Citation

Tapales, Althea Jem Darbin and Galeema, Diann E., "Introducing a mental health educational package guide for low-socioeconomic status cardiac rehabilitation patients in Vermont: A survey on concerns, needs assessment, and prioritized behavioral goals" (2025). UVM Student Scholarship From Other Sources. 9.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/studentgen/9