Cardiac Rehabilitation
Stewart Memorial Community Hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation program is designed to help people recover, both physically and emotionally, from a heart attack, balloon angioplasty, stent placement, complications from chronic heart failure, coronary artery bypass surgery, or valve replacement or repair surgery. Completing a cardiac rehabilitation program helps reduce the risk of future heart attacks.
Each participant's rehabilitation program is unique. Through monitored, individualized physical exercise, education, and counseling, SMCH's medical team of trained and skilled cardiac rehabilitation professionals work together with patients, their families and their physician to help them achieve and maintain a healthy lifestyle.
Phase I Cardiac Rehabilitation
Phase I Cardiac Rehabilitation is the initial recovery period, beginning after a related heart procedure while the patient is in the hospital and ending when the patient is discharged.
Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation
Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation has two components: exercise and education. Patients are referred to SMCH’s Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation program by their physicians and typically participate in Phase II cardiac rehabilitation 1 hour, 2-3 times per week. Patients may also self-refer to Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation.
Exercise
The exercise portion is individualized to meet the needs of each patient. Sophisticated heart monitoring equipment is used during each exercise session to ensure patient safety. While the emphasis is on gradually increasing aerobic activity, muscle strengthening and flexibility are also incorporated. Exercise sessions are monitored by an experienced registered nurse with clinical expertise in electrocardiography and coronary care.
Education
The education component consists of individual discussion of cardiac risk factors, lifestyles changes, medication use and managing life stressors. Individualized nutrition counseling is provided by a registered dietician. Medication counseling is provided by a SMCH pharmacist. Family members are an integral part of the recovery process and are encouraged to attend any education or exercise session.
Phase III Cardiac Rehabilitation
Phase III Cardiac Rehabilitation is a fitness program designed to maintain and improve cardiovascular health. Participants in the Phase III program receive an individualized exercise prescription to be completed under the supervision and direction of an experienced registered nurse. Blood pressure and heart rate are monitored throughout the sessions.
Cost
Medicare, Medicaid, and most insurance companies will pay for some or all of the cost of SMCH's Cardiac Rehabilitation program. Check with your medical insurance provider to obtain information about coverage for outpatient cardiac rehabilitation.