Cardiac Rehabilitation
Cardiac rehabilitation is a comprehensive program structured to support individuals recovering from heart-related conditions. It is an individualized, physician-directed treatment consisting of patient evaluation, physician-supervised exercise, and risk factor reduction through behavior modification.
It is designed to help patients regain strength and confidence, allowing them to lead a healthier and more active life after an acute cardiac event. Cardiac rehab is the next step in recovery, in the continuum of care from hospitalization to home!
- Patients who participate in outpatient cardiac rehab lower their risk of another “event” or hospitalization by as much as 30% when compared to standard therapy alone.
- Individuals who attend 36 sessions of cardiac rehab have a 47% lower risk of death than those patients who attend only one session.
Cardiac Rehabilitation at Covenant
The multi-disciplinary cardiac rehab team at Covenant provides that bridge between inpatient care and outpatient independence at our Mackinaw Campus. From exercise physiologists and respiratory therapists to registered nurses and dietitians, the Covenant team offers medically directed monitored exercise, which aids in rebuilding strength and fostering confidence in a safe environment. Additionally, cardiac rehab offers education and counseling on nutrition, stress management, medication usage, risk factor modification (like quitting smoking), and mental health.
With patient satisfaction ratings in the 95th percentile for two years straight, the Covenant cardiac rehab team knows how to lead you toward a safe and speedy recovery with confidence. We design a program that takes your personal needs into account with the goal of helping you improve your quality of life and live longer.
Our Team
We get to know our patients well, working together to improve your overall well-being! Your care team may include:
- Physicians and residents
- Physician assistants
- Nurse practitioners
- Respiratory therapists
- Exercise physiologists
- Physical and occupational therapists
- Registered nurses
- Dietitians
- Medical assistants
- Social workers
- Health educators
Next Steps
You can ask your healthcare provider for a referral or contact us directly at (989)583-5030 for more information.
Covenant Cardiac Rehabilitation Program offers you support, safe exercise options, and education to prevent future illness and complications from heart disease!
Who Can Benefit from Cardiac Rehabilitation?
The Covenant cardiac rehab program is designed for those who have experienced:
- Heart attack
- Cardiac valve repair or replacement
- Cardiac bypass surgery
- Coronary artery angioplasty or stents
- Stable Angina
- Stable heart failure
- Heart transplant
Cardiac rehabilitation offers numerous benefits to support heart health and recovery. Focusing on behavior modification helps reduce risk factors and lowers the chances of experiencing another heart attack. It also aids in managing heart disease symptoms such as chest pain and shortness of breath while decreasing the physical and emotional effects of the condition. In a safe and controlled environment, cardiac rehab allows individuals to build stamina and strength, ultimately improving overall cardiovascular health and wellness. Most importantly, it empowers individuals to return to the activities they love—whether it's work, hobbies, or regular exercise—with confidence.
What to Expect When Starting Cardiac Rehabilitation
When starting cardiac rehabilitation, your journey to better heart health typically unfolds in three phases.
Phase 1 begins while you are still in the hospital. During this stage, your physician provides a referral for cardiac rehab, and a staff member visits you to initiate the process. This early intervention helps set the foundation for your recovery and long-term heart health.
Phase 2, the outpatient stage, consists of 24 to 36 one-hour sessions over 12 to 18 weeks. These sessions include medically supervised group exercise programs held two to three times weekly. This phase is designed to gradually rebuild strength and endurance in a safe environment, and most insurance plans cover it.
Phase 3 is an optional maintenance program that allows you to continue your progress independently. This self-managed program is available on a self-pay basis, giving you the flexibility to maintain your heart health through ongoing exercise and lifestyle adjustments.
Elements of Our Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
The Covenant cardiac rehabilitation program is designed to support your recovery and long-term heart health through a comprehensive approach. It begins with a personalized assessment of your risk factors, including blood pressure, cholesterol levels, diabetes, weight, and activity level.
Safety is a key component of the program, with medically supervised exercise and individualized plans to help you safely regain strength and endurance. In addition, the program provides emotional and mental support, offering coping strategies from experienced cardiac rehab staff who understand the psychological impact of a cardiac event.
Education and lifestyle support are also central to the program. Registered dietitians guide patients in maintaining a healthy weight, adopting heart-healthy nutrition, and avoiding tobacco and environmental smoke. Patients also have the opportunity to connect with other patients who share similar experiences, fostering a sense of community and encouragement.
Finally, the program enhances communication with your doctor and healthcare providers, ensuring they stay informed about your progress and recovery. Through this comprehensive approach, cardiac rehab empowers you to take control of your heart health and build a healthier future.