Pulmonary Rehabilitation

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis and asthma, is the most common lung disease in the United States.  Each year, more than 30.4 billion are spent on health care for patients with chronic lung disease.  If you have COPD or another chronic lung condition, Pulmonary Rehabilitation can help reduce the impact of the disease on your daily life.

Who is a candidate for Pulmonary Rehab?

Anyone who has been diagnosed with a chronic lung condition is a candidate for Pulmonary Rehabilitation.  Some examples of these conditions are:
• Post-Lung Reduction Surgery
• Emphysema
• Chronic Bronchitis
• Asthma
• Post-Lung Transplant
• Bronchiectasis
• Interstitial Lung Disease

Pulmonary Rehab may also benefit ex-smokers, oxygen dependent patients, and pre- or post-op lung surgery patients.  This program is for those who want to improve their quality of life through exercise, education and sheer determination.

Our Program

Northeast Georgia Medical Center’s Pulmonary Rehab combines exercise training with education, behavioral modifications and emotional support to help patients with a chronic lung conditions control their symptoms and improve day-to-day functioning. 

Goals of Pulmonary Rehab

The goals of our pulmonary rehab program are to:
• provide patients with a better understanding of their disease and their symptoms
• improve breathing efficiency
• improve activity tolerance
• reduce the need and frequency of hospitalizations
• guide patients toward more independent self-care

The program consists of two possible phases, Phase II and Phase III;  both are outpatient programs.

Phase II

Phase II Pulmonary Rehabilitation is an outpatient program focusing on exercise and education.  The goal of Phase II is to gradually increase muscle strength and endurance, thereby increasing the capacity to carry out normal daily activities. 

Patients in Phase II meet twice a week for 1 hour and 15 minutes. During these sessions, an exercise physiologist and a respiratory therapist will guide patients through an exercise routine designed specifically for each individual’s needs and abilities.  Vital signs and oxygen levels are closely monitored during each activity.

Educational information such as  breathing retraining and techniques to reduce shortness of breath are also be provided during these sessions.  Phase II may last up to 9 weeks, depending on individual patient needs.

Phase III

Phase III Pulmonary Rehabilitation is  an outpatient exercise maintenance program geared toward maintaining the level of endurance and fitness acquired in Phase II.  Patients in Phase III also meet twice a week for an hour and fifteen minutes each day.

Our Team

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation team consists of your personal physician, the medical director of the program (a board certified pulmonologist), an exercise physiologist, a registered respiratory therapist and a dietician for individual counseling.  The Rehab Team and your personal physician work together to provide a program that will meet your specific needs.

Financial Information

Many insurance plans provide coverage for Phase II Pulmonary Rehabilitation.  Our staff will verify your insurance coverage prior to your enrollment in the program.  Phase III Rehab is generally not covered by insurance, but it is very reasonable.  We will be happy to discuss any financial concerns you may have with you.

If you feel you are a candidate for pulmonary rehabilitation, discuss the program with your physician who can determine how the program can best meet your needs. 

How do I join the Pulmonary Rehab Program?

Entry into this program requires referral from your physician.  You will be required to participate in either an exercise stress test or a six minute walk test before beginning the program.  You may be required to take a breathing function test.  These tests will be used to assist the rehab team in developing an exercise prescription specific to your needs and abilities.

Location

Pulmonary Rehab is located at The Rehabilitation Institute at Sherwood Plaza at 597 S. Enota Drive, Gainesville, Ga., 30501. (click here for map)

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