The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) has nationally recognized and certified our Cardiac Rehabilitation program. This certification, one of only 1,300 nationwide, confirms that we meet the stringent national criteria of the AACVPR in the areas of education, safety, equipment and facilities, staff clinical excellence, patient satisfaction, and outcome measures.

Phase I - Inpatient Recovery
If you have been hospitalized for a heart attack or heart surgery, Phase I cardiac rehabilitation begins while you are recuperating in the hospital. Daily physical exercises and ongoing education help prepare you for your return home.  Phase I is conducted by the health professionals of the Inpatient Physical and Occupational Therapy departments at The Medical Center.

Phase II – Outpatient Recovery
Phase II is a 6-12 week outpatient cardiac rehab program consisting of physician-supervised exercise and a comprehensive educational series. Your insurance plan may play a role in determining your eligibility for Phase II. Classes meet on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday mornings for two hours. We encourage family members to attend the educational sessions. Classes are conducted by the Cardiac Rehab Team including the medical director, a cardiac nurse, an exercise physiologist, a registered dietician, and a clinical nurse. Our goal is to strengthen your heart and to help you regain your independence while you work to make your lifestyle healthier.  

Phase III – Maintenance
Phase III is a six-week program designed for patients who have completed the Phase II program. Phase III, an open gym concept, emphasizes progressive conditioning and healthy lifestyles through exercise. Light strength training and a flexibility program may also be included. The Cardiac Rehab gym is supervised at all times by an exercise physiologist and/or a registered nurse.