Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation services include:

• Fitness program to strengthen heart health
• Nutrition counseling
• Psychological counseling
• Weight management
• Stress management
• Smoking cessation
• Diabetes education
• Support groups

What to Expect

When you begin your outpatient cardiac rehabilitation, you’ll join a small group of people — no more than four— who may have conditions very similar to yours. Exercising after a heart attack, even a walk around the neighborhood, can be frightening. Many heart attack survivors initially worry that exercise or any type of prolonged activity that increases their heart rate could strain their recovering heart, however, even a low level of physical activity within the first year of a heart attack is enough to reduce the odds of dying in the immediate years following.

Cardiac rehabilitation at Community Medical Center is unique in our area for its small classes and close personal attention. Group members tend to be very supportive of each other, and generous with encouragement and laughter. You’ll also benefit from working with our exercise physiologist, who has experience in cardiac rehabilitation. She gets to know each patient and understands their individual needs. A personalized plan for your classes will be created as well as a home exercise program you can continue after completing your program.

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Getting Started

• Ask your doctor if you are eligible. Your primary care physician or cardiologist doesn't need to be affiliated with Community Medical Center to participate in our program.
• Call us to register for one of our cardiac rehab programs.
• Community Medical Center will determine if cardiac rehab is covered under your insurance plan. Medicare and most other insurers provide reimbursement for cardiac rehab undertaken after most of the conditions outlined above.
• Classes typically meet three times a week for one hour, but this schedule can be tailored to fit your individual needs. Classes are available on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday between 8 am and 4 pm.
• Your therapist will consult with your physician to determine your current condition and start you at a safe pace.
• Your heart rate, heart rhythm and blood pressure will be continuously monitored as you exercise.
• Our experienced therapists watch each participant carefully for signs that they should slow down or stop, and help them know when to increase their activity levels.
• As you exercise, your therapist will give you information about cardiovascular risk factors that is tailored to your specific needs.
• Each participant gives feedback on their program and how they’re feeling during the exercise.
• We welcome spouses or family members to participate as well.
• As you progress through your rehab program, you’ll gradually increase your activities on machines such as treadmills, stationary recumbent bikes and elliptical trainers. Many people are surprised at how well they do and how much better they feel when they get into the rhythm of exercising.

Have questions about cardiac rehab or want to register for our next session? Call us at (406) 327-4241.

Quality Heart Care, Close to Home