Pulmonary rehabilitation is a very individualized program, with each participant having different goals. The program is most beneficial to persons suffering from emphysema, COPD, chronic bronchitis or asthma.

Program Entry Requirements

Physician's Referral
Pulmonary Testing
Exercise Level Determination

Personnel

A respiratory therapist, specially trained in cardio-pulmonary rehabilitation, will coordinate the program and assist other specialty team members. The multi-disciplinary team will assist participants in learning about pulmonary disease.

Session I

The rehabilitation process begins with collecting a medical history and doing an exercise tolerance test. Some participants may require further medical testing.

Session II

The second phase of the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program begins with 6 to 12 sessions of exercise. The duration depends on patient need and tolerance. Session II includes education about the respiratory system, breathing exercises, relaxation techniques, efficient breathing medications and dietary habits.

Session III

After Session II of the program is completed, Session III offers participants a lifelong program to maintain the improved status of health achieved.