What is Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is an exercise, education, and lifestyle program that is tailored to your individual needs. We understand that each patient has unique circumstances, health history and concerns about exercise. We also know that exercise in a supportive environment such as cardiac rehab will benefit everyone regardless of their level of fitness.Cardiac rehab specialists include exercise physiologists, nurses, and respiratory therapists who will guide you through an individualized exercise and education program. They also will work with you to create an appointment schedule that is convenient for you and your lifestyle.
Through cardiac rehab, you will learn about your heart and how it works, as well as how to lower your risk for the future. Your blood pressure and heart rhythm will be monitored and your exercise will be progressed according to your improvement. You will come away from the program feeling stronger and with the knowledge and confidence to manage your risk and exercise on your own.
Learn more by reviewing answers to common questions. For patients with lung disease, Summa Health also offers Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can cardiac rehab help?
By helping you regain strength and improve stamina, cardiac rehab can help you:
- Live longer and lessen your chances for another heart attack
- Control heart disease symptoms such as chest pain or shortness of breath
- Stop or reverse damage to your blood vessels in your heart
- Lessen the physical and emotional effects of heart disease
- Improve your stamina and strength, getting you back to your usual activities, including work, hobbies, and regular exercise
- Improve your confidence and well-being
What are some expected outcomes of cardiac rehab?
According to recent studies, cardiac rehab can help:
- Lower risk of death from any cause by 45-47% in stent patients
- Reduce heart failure readmissions by 28%
- Lower risk of death caused by the heart 26-31%
- Improve fitness levels in most patients by 25% or more
What does cardiac rehab offer?
- Assessment of your personal risk factors for heart and blood vessel disease
- Beginning and maintaining a personalized exercise plan that works for you
- Psychological/stress assessment and counseling
- Education and support to make healthy lifestyle changes such as maintaining a healthy weight, heart healthy eating, avoiding tobacco and environmental smoke
- Opportunity to meet and share stories with other patients like you
- Monitoring and better control of blood pressure, lipids /cholesterol and diabetes
- Improved communication with your doctor and other healthcare providers about your progress following your cardiac event
Is it safe for me to exercise? I get tired very easily. What if I can't keep up with the other participants?
Although you exercise as part of a small group, each person has their own exercise program based on their medical diagnosis, cardiac function test and exercise evaluation. Each person is given an exercise routine that they can tolerate. Your exercise capacity is increased gradually at your own pace and under the guidance of highly trained rehab specialists. Any concerns about your response to exercise will be promptly reported to your healthcare provider.
Are family members allowed to attend the education classes?
Yes. We encourage family, friends or caregivers to attend the education classes to learn more about how to support their loved ones with heart disease.
Will my insurance cover the cost of cardiac rehabilitation?
A majority of insurance programs, including Medicare and Medicaid, cover part or all of the cost of cardiac rehab. Check with your insurance company for specific coverage or any pre-certification requirements. Our office will assist you with insurance issues.
Cardiac Rehab Weekly Classes
Summa Health Cardiac Rehab offers free weekly education topics at both our Akron and Barberton locations. The goal of the education classes is to teach patients how to manage their heart disease and reduce their risk of future heart problems.
Topics include:
- Heart Healthy Diet Guidelines
- Weight Management
- Cardiac Procedures
- Diabetes Management
- Cardiac Medications
- Signs and Symptoms of Heart Disease
- Quitting Tobacco
For more information, contact Summa Health Cardiac Rehab at 330.375.4472.
Locations
Cardiac rehabilitation is available at two Summa Health locations, both offering free parking. To learn more or find out if you qualify, please contact your preferred location.
Summa Health System – Akron Campus
Richard M. and Yvonne Hamlin Pavilion
95 Arch St, Suite G25
Akron, OH 44304
330.375.4472
Summa Health System – Barberton Campus
155 5th St NE, Ground Floor
Barberton, OH 44203
330.615.3934