Saint Alphonsus Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Programs Earn National Accreditation by Industry Leader

The cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs at Saint Alphonsus have been recertified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). This recertification is recognition of Saint Alphonsus’ continued commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care.

Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems (e.g., heart attacks, coronary artery bypass graft surgery) and pulmonary problems (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], other respiratory symptoms) recover faster and live healthier. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families.

“The best available evidence shows that pulmonary patients have quality of life and symptomatic benefit from pulmonary rehab and the experience of my patients agrees with this,” said Dr. Joshua Holweger, Pulmonary Rehabilitation Medical Director.

“Cardiac rehab is a great medicine. In many, it helps reduce the potential for future heart attacks, prevents hospitalization, and prolongs life. Those who complete it endorse a better quality of life. That's a pill I would gladly take if I needed it,” said Dr. Matthew Nelson, Cardiac Rehabilitation Medical Director.

As part of the evaluation process, Saint Alphonsus submitted data for performance measurements including improvements for functional capacity, tobacco use interventions and cessation, optimal blood pressure control, improvements in psychosocial outcomes such as depression and enrollment and adherence measures. Certification also requires demonstration of the readiness of staff and equipment to handle the most common medical emergencies in the Cardiac Rehabilitation program.

AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-reviewed accreditation process designed to review facilities for adherence to standards and guidelines published by the AACVPR and other professional societies. The AACVPR is committed to the mission of reducing morbidity, mortality, and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management.

To learn more about the Saint Alphonsus Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation programs, visit the Saint Alphonsus website.