CARDIAC REHAB 
What is a Comprehensive Cardiac Rehab Program?
PHASE I occurs while you are in the hospital and involves education regarding heart disease, tests and procedures, lifestyle modification and home instructions. The exercise portion of this phase often involves low-level exertion such as walking in the hallway. Most cardiac patients will benefit by participating in outpatient cardiac rehab after they leave the hospital.
PHASE II usually begins one to three weeks after hospitalization and includes classes three times a week for up to 12 weeks. The cardiac rehab multi-disciplinary team works with patients and their families to achieve each patient’s optimal level of health and fitness. All sessions are monitored and medically supervised. We provide education in group and individual formats to help patients live a heart-healthy lifestyle by controlling factors that increase the risk of heart disease.
PHASE III begins after graduation from a Phase II program and is designed to move the patient toward independence in exercise and lifestyle management. The program is similar to the Phase II program with its medical supervision, but features periodic rather than daily heart-rhythm monitoring. How long your program will last depends on several factors and may run indefinitely.
Who is a candidate for cardiac rehabilitation?
Anyone with a cardiac diagnosis can benefit from cardiac rehab, specifically those with a history of:
- Coronary artery disease or angina
- Heart attack
- Bypass or valve surgery
- Heart failure
- Angioplasty/stent placement
Will insurance cover the cost of the program?
Depending on your diagnosis, Medicare and most insurance plans will cover Phase II cardiac rehab. Phase III is not covered by Medicare or most insurance plans.
Healthy heart demonstration kitchen
The outpatient cardiac rehab program at St. Edward Mercy offers a unique opportunity to learn how to prepare healthy foods that taste good. Our staff holds demonstration classes in an actual kitchen and in a classroom setting.
Improving Your Health through Education and Exercise
The cardiac rehabilitation program at St. Edward Mercy is an individualized program of exercise and education. It is designed to safely improve the strength of the patient while providing critical education on how to improve heart health and reduce the chance of future complications.
Our well-trained staff is made up of:
- Physicians
- Registered nurses
- Exercise physiologists
- Dietitians
This team provides the skills you need for a lifelong commitment to better health.
To You, the Cardiac Patient
Cardiac rehabilitation is important for patients who are recovering from a heart problem. Healthcare professionals in the cardiac rehabilitation program make sure you receive the treatments and education you need – like exercise, healthy eating habits and medications – to get stronger and healthier.
Cardiac rehabilitation is proven to help people with heart problems live longer and enjoy life more than people who do not take advantage of this important therapy. |
