Pulmonary Rehabilitation

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation team works to maximize your strength and endurance, teach you ways of controlling shortness of breath, and assist you in becoming as independent as possible. These services will not cure your lung disease; however, they will give you the ability to control your symptoms and to live with it more effectively. While improving your “quality of living”, the team will develop an individualized program to meet your goals.

Who Should Participate?

Individuals who may benefit from Pulmonary Rehabilitation include those with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, also known as COPD, Chronic Bronchitis, Emphysema, Asthma, Cystic Fibrosis, Pulmonary Fibrosis among other related lung diseases. If you are having lung surgery, Pulmonary Rehabilitation will assist in your preparation for surgery and lead to a more complete recovery.
The expert team of healthcare professionals who may work with you include:

•  Pulmonary Physician
•  Respiratory Therapist
•  Nurses, Exercise physiologist
•  Dietitian
•  Pharmacist

Pulmonary Rehab for Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

The pulmonary rehabilitation program at Wooster Community Hospital is tailored to meet each patient’s individual needs and goals.

Patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) make up the majority of patients who are referred to the program. That said, studies show that pulmonary rehabilitation is beneficial for patients with other chronic respiratory diseases that result in decreased lung function or quality of life – such as those with restrictive lung disease or neuromuscular diseases.

In addition, WCH offers a clinically supervised maintenance program for patients who have completed a previous pulmonary rehabilitation program and want to continue exercising.

The WCH pulmonary rehabilitation program is the only AACVPR (American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation) program in Wayne, Holmes, Medina, and Ashland counties, meaning our program meets the published Guidelines for Pulmonary Rehabilitation, which reflect the standard of care and adherence to nationally developed guidelines by undergoing a rigorous review process.

Benefits of Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Patients who successfully complete a pulmonary rehabilitation program experience a wide range of benefits, including:

• Reduced symptoms such as shortness of breath and fatigue
• Increased muscle strength and endurance
• Increased knowledge about lung disease and management
• Increased ability to perform tasks of daily living
• Increased quality of life

Components of Pulmonary Rehab

The WCH pulmonary rehab program includes components as directed by Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) guidelines, including: