Cardiac rehab is a very important part of the recovery process after a heart related surgery. This program provides the individual with an exercise plan, careful monitoring, and a solid base for an active lifestyle after a heart episode. There are many different parts related to our cardiac rehab program.
This program usually begins about two weeks after hospitalization. Diagnoses that are typically covered by Medicare and most commercial insurance companies include:
Someone from our office will contact the patient within a week from date of discharge. The initial visit will be with the Healthy Hearts Center nurse as well as one of the rehab exercise specialists. The patient will then be scheduled for a pre-rehab treadmill test at a cardiology testing facility. This will ensure the patient is ready to start rehab and will allow the exercise specialist to create an individualized exercise prescription.
The rehab classes consist of supervised exercise sessions lasting approximately 1 hour, 3 times per week. These classes are done in a group setting. The exercise equipment used includes: treadmills, recumbent bikes, arm ergometers, elliptical trainers, stationary bikes, free weights and Paramount resistance equipment. There is a cardiologist in the building on call at all times during the rehab classes/sessions should the need arise.
The length of the program is individualized and based upon medical necessity and insurance coverage. However, most patients continue in the program for 3 to 12 weeks. The patient's insurance will be verified prior to the initial rehab visit.
Clinical Psychologist Consultation
A one-on-one consultation with the clinical psychologist is offered to all phase II cardiac patients. Also described as rehab's “life style coach,” the psychologist assists patients in making healthy lifestyle modifications. Typically, this is a covered benefit with most insurance companies. If for some reason insurance coverage is denied, the patient will be notified prior to the scheduled appointment.
Nutrition Consultation
As part of our phase II cardiac rehab program, a one-on-one consultation with the registered dietitian will be scheduled. The dietitian will encourage patients to make dietary modifications and healthy food selections. The dietitian is available during rehab hours to answer any questions or to schedule follow-up appointments. The dietitian is also available for anyone enrolled in The Healthy Hearts Center. Talk to a staff member to get an appointment scheduled.
The following programs are offered at convenient times, Monday through Friday, lasting approximately 1 hour, 3 to 5 times per week. To qualify for these programs, the individual must be independent and track his or her progress with each exercise session. Supervision is provided by rehab staff. The staff will perform a weekly resting and exercise blood pressure as well as a monthly EKG on all individuals in these programs.
The cost for these programs are:
Payment should be made to one of the rehab staff at the beginning of each month.
Phase III Cardiac Rehab
Our phase III program is designed to serve as a maintenance program following completion of the phase II rehab. This program is also available to patients who do not qualify for phase II, along with a current referral from their cardiologist. There is no limit on how long a patient is a member of this program. A yearly treadmill test and office visit with patient’s cardiologist is recommended to remain a current member.
Spouse Exercise Program
In order to promote a healthy lifestyle in the families of our cardiac patients, we are offering the opportunity for patients to bring their spouse to exercise with them.
Maintenance Exercise Program
This program is available for all individuals 18 years of age and older. A physician referral is required prior to starting this program. The patient’s physician will determine whether an exercise stress test (monitored by cardiologist) or a six-minute walk test (monitored by cardiac rehab staff) will be performed prior to starting the program. This program is excellent for individuals who are trying to lose weight, have hypertension, diabetes, or elevated cholesterol, or who are trying to quit smoking. It is also good for those individuals who are in need of a facility to maintain their healthy lifestyle.
