We believe that effective cardiac rehabilitation means making overall, heart-healthy lifestyle changes. Not only will these changes improve your overall health, but they can also serve as a preventative measure, eliminating potential problems in the future. Patients who adopt these changes notice many positive differences in the quality of their lives and can even live longer.
Rather than a one-and-done treatment, we want to help you make these lifestyle changes sustainable. That’s why we offer exercise training, stress reduction, nutritional counseling, and education on what it takes to embrace heart-healthy living.
How do I know if this program is for me?
Our new Cardiac Rehabilitation program may be appropriate for you if you’ve had:
- A heart attack
- Angina (chest pains)
- Balloon angioplasty, stent, or other cardiac procedure
- Bypass or valve surgery
- Heart failure
- A heart transplant
- Stable chronic heart failure
If you’ve had or currently have any of these conditions, we believe you may benefit from this program.
What can I expect from this program?
The new Cardiovascular Rehabilitation program focuses on the three E’s: exercise, education, and encouragement. Each of these pillars works together to ensure our patients benefit from the time spent in this program.
Exercise
Patients will receive a custom, individualized exercise regimen based on his or her individual needs, medical condition, and physical ability. You will also receive supervised exercise sessions with others who may have a similar condition as you. We will also equip you with the information you need to continue doing the exercises at home. Physical activity can be a challenge for many, especially as part of an overall lifestyle change. We want you to know, however, that you won’t be going through this program alone.
Education
In terms of education, we will work with you to identify ways you can live a more healthy lifestyle and reduce risk factors for heart conditions. You will also be able to recognize signs and symptoms that indicate you need medical attention, possibly saving your life. By the end of the program, you will be more empowered to understand your medications and what you can do every day to lead a healthy, independent life.
Encouragement
Being listened to feels pretty good, especially if you are a healthcare patient. In our program, you will have health professionals available to listen to any concerns or answer any questions you may have. In our group education sessions, you can include family, friends, or other loved ones. Learn more about your health conditions as a team and find support where you need it most.
How can I benefit from this program?
If you are seeking information about your heart-related health condition, this program can help. People who complete the program may find that they have a decreased risk of heart attacks. They might also see an improvement in exercise tolerance or overall endurance. Stress reduction is another significant benefit, as is a reduction in cigarette smoking and a longer lifespan.
Contact your physician today about a referral or call us for more information about the UAB Medical West Cardiac Rehabilitation program.
Call our physician referral line at 205-996-WEST to schedule an appointment with a UAB Medical West provider. We are here to serve the communities of Hoover, Bessemer, McCalla, and Vance, and more!