Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Programs

If you or a loved one have experienced problems with your heart (cardiac) or are living with a chronic (ongoing) lung (pulmonary) disease, the Cardiac or Pulmonary Rehab Program may be able to help you improve your health and quality of life.

What is Cardiac Rehabilitation?

Cardiac Rehabilitation (Cardiac Rehab) is a professionally supervised program to help you recover from heart attacks, heart failure and procedures such as angioplasty, stenting and heart surgery. Cardiac Rehab does not replace medical therapy. It is used with medical therapy to enhance your recovery and reduce the risk of a future cardiac event. Cardiac rehab may include:

• A detailed initial assessment of all aspects of you and your health
• Exercise training supervised by a physiotherapist, registered nurse, and respiratory therapist
• Education on heart disease and how to manage it
• Strategies to reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease
• Nutritional counseling by a registered dietitian
• Other counseling and/or group support

What is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?

Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a program that helps improve your well-being if you have chronic (ongoing) breathing problems. Pulmonary Rehab does not replace medical therapy. It is used with medical therapy to reduce the symptoms of your ongoing lung condition and improve your overall quality of life. Pulmonary Rehab may include:

• A detailed initial assessment of all aspects of you and your health
• Exercise training supervised by a physiotherapist, registered nurse, and respiratory therapist
• Education on lung diseases and how to manage it
• Energy conservation techniques
• Breathing strategies
• Nutritional counseling by a registered dietitian
• Other counseling and/or group support

Will I need a referral?

Your physician or nurse practitioner can refer you to the Cardiac Rehab Program by submitting a completed referral form [PDF | 129 KB]. An exercise stress test must be sent in with your referral. If you meet the inclusion criteria for the program, you will be contacted for an assessment appointment.

Your physician or nurse practitioner can refer you to the Pulmonary Rehab Program by submitting a completed referral form [PDF | 64 KB]. If you meet the inclusion criteria for the program, you will be contacted for an assessment appointment.

Where is the program located?

The Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab programs are offered in-person in Charlottetown, Summerside and Montague. Work is underway to bring in-person programs to the West Prince area. Virtual programs are offered provincially. 

Parking is available near all locations and buildings have elevator access.

What can I expect as a participant in the program?

Classes are once or twice a week for 12 weeks. The classes include exercise and group education.  It is recommended that you wear comfortable clothing and appropriate shoes for the exercise portion. The rehab team will monitor you during the exercise to ensure your safety. Do not worry if you are new to exercising, our team of health care professionals will design a safe program that is specific to your needs or abilities.

Family members and friends are encouraged to attend the education classes with you.

Who can I contact for more information?

If you have questions or would like more information about the Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Programs, please call (902) 388-0744.