NCT05933083 · University of California, San Francisco
MCNAIR Study: coMparative effeCtiveness of iN-person and teleheAlth cardIac Rehabilitation
What this study is about
Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically recommended program for patients with certain heart conditions. It includes exercise training, health education, and counseling. Unfortunately, many patients do not participate in cardiac rehabilitation. Some find it challenging to attend the in-person sessions.
View original scientific description
Cardiac rehabilitation is a medically recommended program for patients with certain heart conditions. It includes exercise training, health education, and counseling. Unfortunately, many patients do not participate in cardiac rehabilitation. Some find it challenging to attend the in-person sessions. This study aims to compare two methods of delivering cardiac rehabilitation: in-person and through telehealth. The investigators want to know if the effects of these two programs are alike and if certain individuals benefit more from one program over the other.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Age 18 or older
- Eligible for cardiac rehabilitation
- Diagnosis within 1 year prior to consent
- Myocardial infarction
- Percutaneous coronary intervention
- Coronary artery bypass
- Heart valve repair or replacement
- Heart transplant
- Chronic stable angina, or
- Chronic systolic heart failure (ejection fraction ≤ 35%)
- Referred to cardiac rehabilitation by a doctor or advanced practice provider for another indication that is covered by the participant's insurance, such as heart failure with preserved ejection fraction or aortic surgery.
- Willing to be randomized to in-person or telehealth cardiac rehabilitation
- Able to communicate in English or Spanish
Exclusion criteria
- Unstable arrhythmias which may make unmonitored exercise unsafe (e.g., history of ventricular tachycardia not on medical therapy and without an implantable cardioverter defibrillator)
- Unsafe for patient to participate in the opinion of the investigator
- Unable to consent for self
Where
- San Francisco, California
- Denver, Colorado
- Baltimore, Maryland
- Ann Arbor, Michigan
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Sep 11, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations