Aspirus Health is proud to announce the certification of its cardiac rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). This certification is in recognition of Aspirus Keweenaw’s 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 including heart attacks, coronary artery bypass graft surgery and pulmonary problems including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respiratory symptoms) recover faster and live healthier. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling, and support for patients and their families.
“Cardiac rehab is here to help patients with heart and lung problems. The program is meant to improve overall quality of life and reduce the chance of future problems including a heart attack or return to the hospital,” said Andrew Meverden, Exercise Physiologist for Aspirus Health.
To earn accreditation, Aspirus Keweenaw’s cardiac 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.
“For more than a decade, our cardiac rehabilitation program has been dedicated to helping patients achieve optimal health outcomes,” said Meverden. “This certification is a testament to our team’s hard work and commitment to providing the highest quality care to our patients.”
Other important aspects of a cardiac rehab program include learning how to control chronic health conditions, such as diabetes or high blood pressure. How to reduce stress, information about the proper use of medication as well as tips for quitting smoking and losing weight.
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 and pulmonary 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.
To find out if you're a candidate for cardiac rehab and to get a referral to a program, talk to your primary care provider or cardiologist.
Appointments are available in Laurium, Houghton, Ironwood and Iron River. For more information, or to schedule an appointment, call Aspirus Laurium Clinic at 906-337-6528, Aspirus Houghton Clinic at 906-231-8053, Aspirus Ironwood Clinic at 906-932-7007 and Aspirus Iron River Clinic at 906-265-0428.