[Current status of ambulatory coronary groups in West Germany. Results of a nation-wide survey].

The aim of the study was to gather detailed information on the structure and function of ambulatory coronary training groups in Germany by means of a nationwide survey. The response rate was 66.7%; the results are therefore representative for the FRG. From the collected data it can be estimated that approximately 500 coronary clubs care for approximately 9 000 patients. Sponsorship, financing, group structure, and club activities, as well as data on morbidity and complications, are presented in detail. Statements by both physicians and patients support the view that the main benefit of coronary clubs is not the improvement of physical fitness, but the improvement in the quality of life of the participants.