Providence St. Peter Hospital is dedicated to helping prevent heart disease for people at risk, and to support and teach those who are recovering from heart disease. Our goal is to help patients recover as quickly as possible so they can return to a full and productive life.

Studies show that people with heart disease who regularly participate in supervised cardiac rehab programs end up healthier than those who don't. Participants in Providence St. Peter Hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation program have said the program helped them feel better, have more confidence, get much-needed emotional support, rebuild strength and stamina, learn to work within their limits, and get back to enjoying life.

Who should participate?
Most people who have or are at risk for cardiac problems such as angina, heart attacks, heart surgery or angioplasty can benefit from cardiac rehabilitation. You need your doctor's referral, which is our assurance that cardiac rehab is right for you.

How much does it cost?
Our program is medically supervised, and most insurance companies reimburse a portion of the cost. Call our Cardiac Rehabilitation program at (360) 493-7050 for information. Your insurance company can provide specific benefit information.

Your team of experts
You can expect to meet an exercise physiologist and registered nurses with special training in coronary care, cardiovascular disease and cardiac rehabilitation. Pharmacists and physical therapists provide additional expertise.

The program
Phase I—Beginning on the second or third day following a heart attack or surgical procedure, a cardiac rehabilitation nurse will meet with you in your hospital room to teach you about heart disease and answer your questions. This phase prepares you to leave the hospital as soon as it is appropriate.

Phase II—Exercise therapy and education sessions
This phase begins when your physician refers you to the program—soon after you leave the hospital. You will attend sessions in our fitness center two or three times a week for three to twelve weeks, depending on your condition. At first you will wear special heart-monitoring equipment as you exercise, and cardiac rehabilitation nurses will watch closely to monitor your heart. An exercise physiologist will oversee your progress.

Phase III—Individualized fitness sessions
After referral by your physician and completion of an exercise test, you are eligible to continue the program. Individualized fitness sessions can begin any time after your heart attack or surgery. Call your doctor or the cardiac rehabilitation staff for more information.

Medical Reference Library article on cardiac rehabilitation