Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Pulmonary rehabilitation is specifically-designed to help patients with lung disorders – including chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), pulmonary fibrosis, asthma, and lung cancer – reduce symptoms, decrease disability and improve participation in daily living activities.

Respiratory Therapy Department’s pulmonary rehabilitation services consist of:

• Exercises utilizing tread mills, stationary bicycles and free weights
• Lifestyle changes
• Nutritional counseling
• Education on lung disease and how to manage it
• Energy-conserving techniques
• Breathing strategies
• Psychological counseling and group support

Our team of pulmonary specialists, respiratory therapists, nurses, dieticians and social workers works with patients to develop a plan customized to individual needs and abilities. Session durations and exercise intensity are gradually increased over time until significantly more activity can be accomplished with less shortness of breath. After pulmonary rehabilitation is completed, we typically recommend a specialized pulmonary exercise program to maintain physical fitness levels.

Insurance coverage for pulmonary rehabilitation varies, but most insurance plans cover at least part of the program.