By Yvonne Steidl
Cardiac rehab supervisor

Cardiac Rehab programs have been synonymous with health and wellness for persons with coronary heart disease.  They are designed to decrease morbidity and mortality and improve patient’s quality of life by increasing physical and cardiovascular fitness and assisting with changes in their risk factors.  Heart disease is still the number one cause of death in the nation.
Cardiac Rehab is a three-phase program of exercise and education.  Phase I is the inpatient hospital period, ordinarily 3-5 days in length for patients with angina, heart attack, other heart disease, or following open heart surgery.
Phase II is an outpatient program which provides a follow-up of education and activities which were started in Phase I.  It usually begins within 1-3 weeks after hospital discharge.  Patients who have not been hospitalized may also be referred.  The usual attendance at sessions is 2-3 times per week for 8-12 weeks.  Patients in Phase II are supervised via EKG and blood pressure monitoring both at rest and with exercise.  Qualified staff is present throughout each session.  Educational services concerning healthy diet, weight counseling, cholesterol levels, stress management, smoking cessation and medication information are offered.  Most major insurance companies, Medicare and Medicaid cover some of the cost of the program for participants who qualify.
Phase III sessions are for individuals who have completed Phase II and warrant an extended supervised exercise program or desire to continue in this maintenance program.  Also, clients who have a heart condition that is not covered by their insurance may opt to use this service.  This program is self-pay.
Mercy Hospital offers all three phases of Cardiac Rehab.  In the outpatient program, a variety of exercise modalities are used including treadmills, stationary bikes, arm ergometer, stepper and recumbent cross trainer to improve cardiovascular fitness.  The objective through exercise is to increase the heart beat to a target heart rate level for approximately 20 to 40 minutes of nearly continuous exercise.  Hopefully the patient will make a commitment to continue their exercise once they have completed rehab.
Mercy Hospital’s Cardiac Rehab program was started in February 1994 and continues to grow every year.  We are located on 1st floor of Mercy Hospital and are open Monday through Friday during regular clinic hours.  A local physician referral is necessary to participate in the outpatient program.  If you would like further information or have questions, contact Cardiac Rehab of Mercy Hospital at 845-6561.