Summary
Improving access to pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) is a worldwide priority. Evidence suggests that those who are more symptomatic, with frequent hospitalisations and whose health status and ability to exercise and perform activities of daily living is worse, are also the ones who respond better and should be referred/prioritised to PR. We explored whether these criteria are aligned with the perspectives of people with chronic respiratory diseases (CRDs), their loved ones (LOs) and healthcare professionals (HCPs).
Efforts need to be made to increase access to pulmonary rehabilitation as early as possible, prioritising those who are more symptomatic and have functional status limitations, and improving communication within and among healthcare services.

Relevance
This article presents the consensual perspectives of different stakeholders. There must be “universal access” to pulmonary rehabilitation and priority must be given to “those who fight and are motivated”. “Communication, dissemination and organization are the keys” to promoting access to pulmonary rehabilitation. All parties encouraged the need for education and dissemination of information on pulmonary rehabilitation.
Several strategies to improve access to pulmonary rehabilitation have been introduced and need to be integrated. These include: involving more health professionals in primary care; develop “try before you buy” sessions; initiatives with patient associations; and the use of technology/peer support.