Cardiac Rehabilitation Program

What is cardiac rehabilitation?
The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital is a comprehensive program consisting of monitored exercise, health education, and counseling. The program helps people with heart disease achieve their optimal level of cardiovascular health and fitness.

Who is the program for?
The program is designed for patients with coronary heart disease who have experienced one of the following heart related issues:

• a recent heart attack
• angina attacks
• heart bypass surgery
• other heart problems

What are the goals of cardiac rehabilitation?

• to increase stamina and energy levels
• to allow an earlier return to work and hobbies
• to decrease or eliminate risk factors for cardiovascular disease (?) (they had nothing after "cardiovascular")
• to improve the overall quality of life

What are the benefits of undertaking a regular exercise program?
A regular exercise program:

• improves muscle strength and circulation
• lowers blood pressure at rest and during activity
• decreases body fat and increases lean muscle mass
• improves your cholesterol/HDL ratio
• provides a mechanism to relieve stress

How does the Cardiovascular Rehabilitation Program work?
The program accepts patients from any hospital with a physician referral. Before beginning the program, you will undergo an exercise stress test administered by a physician. The test will determine the type and intensity of physical exercise most suitable for you. (You may contact the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at (847) 723-8745 for your test results.) After careful evaluation of your condition, an individualized exercise program will be developed for you.

How long is the program?
Because the rehabilitation program is individually designed, the length will vary from person to person. The program typically lasts three months, with participants attending three times per week (Monday, Wednesday and Friday). After you have completed the rehabilitation program, you will continue to exercise either at home, in a supervised maintenance program, or in a non-monitored facility. You should then continue your exercise program for the rest of your life.

Who will provide my medical care?
During the rehabilitation program, you will remain under the care of your primary physician and any medical specialist you may have consulted with. Registered nurses and exercise physiologists on staff at the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program will communicate with your physicians and consult with them on matters related to your care and treatment.

Will my insurance cover the cost of the program?
Most commercial insurance carriers and Medicare will pay for a major share of the cost. Our staff can assist you in determining the coverage your plan provides.

Where is the program located?
The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is located in suite 160, on the first floor of the Parkside Center, adjacent to Lutheran General Hospital. Parking is available in the parking garage across from the Parkside Center, and at other convenient locations on the Lutheran General Hospital campus.

How can I get more information?
If you have any questions or would like more information, please stop by or contact the rehabilitation department at (847) 723-8745.