Virtual cardiac program launched to reduce hospital re-admissions

A new partnership between a not-for-profit health insurer and an Australian digital health company is set to transform cardiac care with the launch of a virtual rehabilitation program aimed at reducing hospital re-admissions for patients with heart disease.

Heart disease remains Australia’s leading cause of death. In the 2023 financial year alone, GMHBA recorded over 6,800 cardiac-related hospital admissions, with 44% of patients readmitted within six months of their initial event – a statistic the new virtual program aims to shift.

GMHBA CEO David Greig said the collaboration would remove traditional access barriers to cardiac rehab, particularly for members living in regional or remote areas.

“Attending even a single session of cardiac rehab can make a meaningful difference to recovery. But the greatest benefits come with ongoing participation,” Greig said.

The six-week program, Healthier Heart at GMHBA, is delivered online and fully funded for eligible members on Silver Tier hospital cover or higher who have been hospitalised for a cardiac event in the past six months. A doctor’s referral is required to access the service.

Greig added, “Our goal with this partnership is to make cardiac rehab more accessible and flexible, so more people can complete the care they need and dramatically improve their long term health and wellbeing.”

Cardihab, founded in 2016 as a spin-out from CSIRO, is at the forefront of virtual cardiac rehabilitation and chronic disease management. Its platform is designed to integrate evidence-based digital tools into routine clinical care, supporting patients’ recovery journeys from hospital to home.

Cardihab CEO Helen Souris said, “Quality cardiac rehabilitation programs improve people’s quality of life after heart events or surgery, can prevent hospital readmissions and even save lives, which is why the guidelines recommend all patients that have had a heart attack or unstable angina should be referred to a program.”

The shift to virtual rehab has also been welcomed by healthcare professionals.

St John of God Geelong Director of Nursing, Matt Young, said “Cardiac disease remains a significant health challenge in Australia, profoundly impacting individuals and their quality of life.

“A virtual rehabilitation program provides a seamless transition from hospital to home, offering expert care, tailored support, and the flexibility of remote recovery. By leveraging innovation, it enhances accessibility, optimises patient outcomes, and provides a commitment to holistic, patient-centred care.”

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