Pulmonary Rehab
What is pulmonary rehabilitation?
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) 584-5401.
Who should attend pulmonary rehab?
Pulmonary rehab is a comprehensive, medically supervised outpatient service for people who are living with:
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Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) refers to a group of lung diseases that block airflow and make it increasingly difficult for you to breathe
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COVID and long COVID
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Emphysema
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Chronic bronchitis
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Asthma
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Pulmonary fibrosis
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Pre-and post-lung transplant surgery
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Plus other respiratory diagnoses
Benefits and program goals of pulmonary rehab
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Less shortness of breath
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Improved strength and endurance
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Greater independence
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Better understanding of nutritional needs
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Great knowledge of oxygen equipment and medications
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Less depression and anxiety
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Better coping skills
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Improved ability to return to work and leisure activities
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Improved quality of life
Patient education
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:
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Proper nutrition
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Detailed breathing retraining
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Infection prevention and bronchial hygiene
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Respiratory medications
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Energy-conservation techniques
A team approach
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:
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Exercise physiologist
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Respiratory therapist
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Physical therapist
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Occupational therapist
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Rehabilitation technician
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Pharmacist
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Social worker
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Dietician
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Nurse
Insurance
Most health insurance companies offer reimbursement for pulmonary rehabilitation. Contact your insurance provider for specific details of coverage.
Follow-up
Once the program is completed, patients are encouraged to make exercise a lifelong commitment.
Phase II
Location:
Phase II pulmonary rehab is located within VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital's C.A.R.E. Building on the lower level, by appointment only: (434) 584-5401.
Phase III
Location:
Phase III pulmonary rehab is offered at the Hendrick Cancer & Rehab Center, 750 Lombardy Street in South Hill, by appointment only: (434) 584-5401.
Learn more
For more information, please call: