Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation is a multidisciplined program designed to provide a platform for people at risk for coronary artery blockages and other cardiac conditions to change their lifestyle. It is defined as the process by which optimal physical, psychological, social, vocational, and emotional status is restored and maintained in people with cardiovascular disease.

Cardiac rehabilitation begins in the hospital (phase I) and progresses through the first 12 weeks after a cardiac event or procedure (phase II). It continues for the next 3 to 12 months after the episode (phase III), which is usually not covered by insurance. The long-term or maintenance phase (phase IV) continues for the duration of the person's life. Implementation of cardiac rehabilitation involves the combined efforts of physicians, nurses, dietitians, exercise specialists, and ...