Here at Regional Health Services of Howard County, we offer Pulmonary Rehabilitation Phase II and Phase III.

Phase II Pulmonary Rehabilitation at RHSHC is a medically monitored exercise program prescribed by a physician and designed for those who have underlying lung disease.  This program combines physical exercise with healthy lifestyle modification to help improve your quality of life. Phase III Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a maintenance exercise program for patients who have completed Phase II and wish to continue their exercise routines at RHSHC.

 

What can I expect?

During exercise sessions, oxygen saturations and heart rates are closely monitored before, during, and after each exercise session.  Sessions are set up two times per week for 18 weeks and last approximately 45 minutes. Pulmonary rehab also includes an educational component that teaches patients how to manage their lung disease and also how to minimize hospitalizations. Some of the education topics include:

  • Breathing techniques
  • Nutrition
  • Inhaler use
  • Stress and relaxation
  • Environmental triggers
  • Exercise safety and importance
  • Smoking cessation
  • Oxygen safety, handling, and management

Here at RHSHC, our pulmonary rehab patients also have the opportunity for two consultations which are included in their exercise program: a private consultation with the hospital’s dietitian and a private consultation with one of the hospital’s pharmacists.

 

Qualifications for Pulmonary Rehab

A formal referral from your physician is required in order to participate in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation program. If you have any symptoms or diagnoses listed below, Pulmonary Rehab may be appropriate for you!

  • Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (Gold stage II-IV)
  • Post-COVID19
  • Asthma
  • Pulmonary Hypertension
  • Pulmonary Fibrosis
  • Dyspnea on exertion
  • Interstitial lung disease
  • Bronchiectasis
  • Diaphragm disorders
  • Pulmonary embolism
  • Shortness of breath

 

Financial Consideration/Insurance Coverage

Medicare and Blue Cross Blue Shield along with most major medical insurance carriers pay for a portion of the cost.  Each client should contact his/her health insurance company to determine coverage.

 

For more information concerning our program, please contact Abby Brincks, RN at 563-547-6671 or you can also contact Regional Health Services of Howard County at 563-547-2101 and ask for the CardioPulmonary department.