@article{AMJ12338,
author = {Ayedh Alahmari and Ziyad M. Alshahrani and Hams Shrourou and Sultan Alshehri and Majed Alkahtani and May Alshalawi and Sara Alyami and Zahra Alnakhli and Mazen Homoud and Abdulaziz Alqarni and Faisal A. Turkestani},
title = {Pulmonary rehabilitation knowledge and barriers among healthcare professionals in Saudi Arabia},
journal = {AME Medical Journal},
volume = {11},
number = {0},
year = {2026},
keywords = {},
abstract = {Background: Pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a comprehensive, multidisciplinary intervention that has been shown to significantly improve symptoms, functional capacity, and quality of life in individuals with chronic respiratory diseases, particularly chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Despite strong evidence supporting its effectiveness, PR remains underutilized in many healthcare settings. This study aimed to evaluate the level of knowledge, attitudes, practices, and perceived barriers related to PR among healthcare professionals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA).Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted among licensed healthcare professionals across KSA between May and December 2023. A total of 328 participants who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire adapted from previously published studies, covering domains of PR knowledge, attitudes, clinical practices, and perceived barriers. Descriptive statistical analysis was used to summarize the findings.Results: Overall, approximately 30% of participants demonstrated good knowledge of PR, while 25.6% exhibited poor knowledge. Awareness gaps were evident across several PR components. The most reported barriers to PR implementation and patient referral included limited awareness of PR benefits, lack of accessible PR centers, and insufficient professional training.Conclusions: Healthcare professionals in KSA demonstrated moderate knowledge of PR, with several systemic and educational barriers limiting its implementation. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational initiatives, improved access to PR services, and stronger institutional support to enhance referral practices and participation rates nationwide.},
issn = {2520-0518}, url = {https://amj.amegroups.org/article/view/12338}
}