Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation is strongly recommended for anyone with a recent cardiovascular problem, such as:

• Angioplasty with or without stent placement
• Chronic stable angina
• Congestive heart failure
• Coronary bypass surgery
• Heart attack
• Heart transplant
• Heart valve repair or replacement surgery
• Peripheral arterial disease with symptoms

The Cardiac Rehabilitation program at Westerly Hospital is certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Certification reflects adherence to strict standards of care.

A Comprehensive Approach

Classes are held for 60 minutes three times a week on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday at various times throughout the day. The exercise component includes:

• Aerobic exercise
• Flexibility/stretches
• Resistance training with hand weights

The program also includes an education component led by nurses and exercise physiologists. Educational handouts will be provided for each educational topic. Conversing with others who have experienced a similar cardiac event can provide you with valuable emotional support as you recover.

Education topics may include:

• Diet and nutrition
• Exercise guidelines
• Medications
• Risk factor reduction
• Stress management

Professional, Caring Staff

An individualized treatment plan will be designed by our team of cardiac nurses and exercise physiologists who will monitor your heart rate and rhythm and guide your progression. Blood pressure, oxygen saturation and blood sugar (for those with diabetes) are assessed during each visit. Exercise is tailored to a participant’s needs and physical capability. The cardiac rehabilitation team stays in close contact with your physician regarding your progression.

Costs and Insurance

Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover up to 36 cardiac rehabilitation sessions for the listed conditions, procedures. You are encouraged to ask your insurance carrier about your specific coverage. A physician-signed referral is required. For more information, please call 401-348-3793.

Cardiac Risk Factor Reduction Program

Westerly Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Department offers a 12-session Cardiac Risk Factor Reduction Program open to adults of all ages and fitness levels. The program includes risk factor identification, individualized exercise sessions created by exercise physiologists, blood pressure monitoring, and education on cardiac risk factors including cholesterol, stress management and weight loss. The program is facilitated by exercise physiologists and a registered nurse, all certified in CPR and advanced cardiac life support.

To be eligible for the program you must have one of the following risk factors: high blood pressure, diabetes, overweight/obesity, stress, family history of heart disease, sedentary lifestyle and/or smoking. A physician referral is required. The program is not covered by insurance. Program benefits may include reduced cholesterol and blood pressure, improved control of blood glucose, improved quality of sleep, weight loss, increased flexibility and reduced shortness of breath.

A Certified Program

The Cardiac Rehabilitation program at Westerly Hospital is certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Certification reflects adherence to strict standards of care. The Heart and Vascular Center outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is also offered at other Yale New Haven Health locations.