MASSENA, NY – When people experience a cardiac event, undergo cardiac surgery, or have heart disease, they may be referred to receive outpatient Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation at Massena Hospital (MH). The service through St. Lawrence Health is the only program in St. Lawrence County certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation.
Cardiac Rehabilitation is performed in the Medical Imaging Department on the main floor of the Hospital, and is individualized for each patients’ specific condition(s).
MH Clinical Exercise Physiologist Krystle Lincoln, CE-P, CCRP, noted patients are referred to the service line if they have had a heart attack over the past year, or have had coronary artery angioplasty or stents, coronary bypass grafting, heart valve repair or replacement, heart transplant, stable angina, or congestive heart failure (with an ejection fraction of less than 35%).
“Studies have shown that participation in a Cardiac Rehab program can reduce the risk of death from a cardiac causes, as well as decrease hospital readmissions. Cardiac Rehab participation also improves the patient’s functional status, quality of life, and mood,” Ms. Lincoln said.
When some people hear the word “rehabilitation/rehab,” they think of Physical Rehabilitation; however, Cardiac Rehab patients receive an individualized treatment plan that includes education on physical activity, nutrition, stress management, and other health-related areas, along with electrocardiogram, telemetry, blood pressure, and pulse oximetry.
Patients typically work in their own room or space with a rehabilitation professional during their session. Staff can further help to coordinate referrals to a dietician or other community resources if needed.
Ms. Lincoln noted patients may have up to 36 sessions to assist in their recovery form a cardiac event. If a patient or their caregiver feels Cardiac Rehab would be beneficial, they are encouraged to connect with their provider for a referral.
For more information on Cardiology services offered through St. Lawrence Health, visit https://stlawrencehealthsystem.org/Services/Cardiology, or call Cardiac Rehab at 315.842.3012.
