Fort HealthCare has announced it has once again received certification of its cardiovascular rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR).
According to information released by Fort Healthcare, the certification is recognition of its commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care.
Cardiovascular rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems — such as heart attacks, coronary artery bypass and graft surgery — to recover faster and live healthier. The program includes exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families, the release stated.
Fort HealthCare’s program is divided into three phases, the first beginning while patients are admitted to the hospital with a focus on recovery. The second phase is focused on healing. After discharge, if the provider feels the patient are ready, they can start phase two through a specially designed exercise program unique to them. After completing that stage, patients are then eligible for phase three, the Cardiopulmonary Exercise and Wellness Program at Fort HealthCare, the release noted.
To earn accreditation, Fort HealthCare’s cardiovascular rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other related professional societies. Each program’s application is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee, and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors, the release continued.
In 2018, AACVPR moved to an outcomes-based process with performance measurements that represent more meaningful outcomes. Therefore, AACVPR-certified programs are leaders in the cardiovascular rehabilitation field because they offer the most advanced practices available and have proven track records of high-quality patient care. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years, according to the release.
The program goes beyond just exercise, Lisa Michaels-Bilgrien, coordinator of Cardiopulmonary Services, said within the release.
“Continuing education and support for our patients and the families is also essential in building the specialized, comprehensive care program and we’re honored to have it recognized at a national level,” she added.
For more information about Fort HealthCare’s cardiovascular rehabilitation program, visit: Forthealthcare.com/cardiac-rehabilitation-program/.
Fort Healthcare cardiovascular rehabilitation program staff members Leah Rebout, from left, Lisa Michaels-Bilgrien and Amanda Baneck display the program’s recertification certificate. Another member of the program, Colleen Voll, is not pictured. Contributed photo.
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