Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a program specifically designed for those with lung disease. Each class is provided by a Registered Respiratory Therapist with specialized training in pulmonary rehabilitation and is provided on an outpatient basis. During the program, education is done to teach about the disease process, how to control breathing and how to recognize when problems are arising. Exercise is also an important part of the program improving both strength and endurance. Each person’s therapy is tailored to their specific needs to achieve the highest level of independence and functioning. Through education and exercise, the patient with lung disease can achieve a decrease in shortness of breath, and increase in endurance and better quality of life.

What are the risk factors for COPD?

  • If you currently smoke or used to smoke
  • If you have shortness of breath or chronic cough
  • If you have worked or lived around chemicals or fumes
  • If you have genetic conditions such as Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency or Cystic Fibrosis
  • If you are wondering about your risk for COPD, talk to your healthcare provider. Treatments include medications, oxygen, pulmonary rehabilitation and surgical interventions.

Eligibility for the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Any individual who has chronic lung disease such as COPD, emphysema, asthma or fibrosis who feels the disease affects their quality of life is a candidate for the pulmonary rehabilitation program. The individual should also be a non-smoker.

Program Goals:

  • Improve and maintain endurance and physical ability
  • Decreased fear and anxiety associated with shortness of breath
  • Decreased hospitalizations
  • Understanding of disease and how to manage it
  • Improved quality of life
  • Post program maintenance

Classes Offered

Group or individual programs are available, depending on the needs of the individual. Pulmonary Rehabilitation requires a referral from your physician or pulmonary doctor and a recent breathing test.

  • Individual classes meet two times weekly for five weeks.
  • Group classes meet twice weekly for nine weeks.
  • Education Topics:
  • Controlling your breathing
  • Disease processes
  • How to cope with disease
  • Energy conservation
  • Proper use of medications
  • Nutrition
  • Proper use of home equipment
  • Risk factors and triggers

Cost

Pulmonary rehabilitation is covered by Medicare and most other insurance companies

Location

Winter Haven Hospital Wellness Center

Support and Follow-Up

After graduating from the Pulmonary Rehabilitation program, exercises may be continued at home or at a follow up satellite facility. Support group meetings through the Better Breathers Group are offered throughout the year and include speakers from various topics.

For More Information

Call Winter Haven Hospital Pulmonary Rehabilitation at (863) 297-1825.