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Our program is designed to help you meet the day-to-day challenges of living with chronic lung disease and help you return to the things you enjoy most.
The pulmonary rehab program at VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital is an intensive outpatient program of exercise therapy, patient education and breathing retraining.
The most essential component of pulmonary rehabilitation is breaking the cycle of inactivity frequently associated with lung disease. The exercise program is conducted twice a week.
Instruction and supervision help patients to safely and gradually reach their optimal level of function. All activities are carefully structured and monitored.
Your primary physician or pulmonary specialist may refer you to the outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program by calling (434) 447-3151, ext. 3218.
Pulmonary rehab is a comprehensive, medically supervised outpatient service for people who are living with:
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it increasingly difficult for you to breathe
Emphysema
Chronic bronchitis
Asthma
Pulmonary fibrosis
Pre-and post-lung transplant surgery
Plus other respiratory diagnoses
Less shortness of breath
Improved strength and endurance
Greater independence
Better understanding of nutritional needs
Great knowledge of oxygen equipment and medications
Less depression and anxiety
Better coping skills
Improved ability to return to work and leisure activities
Improved quality of life
Educational sessions to help patients better understand the complexities of their lung condition are an integral part of pulmonary rehabilitation at VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital. Patients and family members are invited to attend classroom sessions. Topics include:
Proper nutrition
Detailed breathing retraining
Infection prevention and bronchial hygiene
Respiratory medications
Energy-conservation techniques
Your personalized rehab plan will be overseen by a physician medical director and your care will be managed by our experienced multidisciplinary team of professionals including:
Exercise physiologist
Respiratory therapist
Physical therapist
Occupational therapist
Rehabilitation technician
Pharmacist
Social worker
Dietician
Nurse
Most health insurance companies offer reimbursement for pulmonary rehabilitation. Contact your insurance provider for specific details of coverage.
Once the program is completed, patients are encouraged to make exercise a lifelong commitment.
Phase I pulmonary rehab, which is provided in the hospital during an inpatient stay, will soon be available at VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital.
Phase II pulmonary rehab is located within VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital on the lower level. Parking and access are available just off High Street.
Classes are Wednesday and Friday 10 a.m., 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Phase III pulmonary rehab is offered at the Hendrick Cancer & Rehab Center, 750 Lombardy Street in South Hill.
Monday – Thursday: 7am – 6:30pm
Friday: 7am – 6pm
Saturday: 7am – 11am
For more information, please call:
(434) 584-5523 or fax (434) 584-5451