National Health & Fitness Day: June 4th - A discussion about cardiac rehabilitation

Attending a cardiac rehabilitation program is one of the best ways to recover after a heart-related event, such as a heart attack. Individuals will work with a team of healthcare professionals who will support them on their road to recovery. Along the way, patients will gain the knowledge, confidence and support to help them succeed in leading a heart-healthy lifestyle.⁠ To learn more about cardiac rehabilitation, we asked the two cardiac rehabilitation program providers, Lisa and Gord, about programs and supports available. 

Who is cardiac rehabilitation for? 

Lisa: Cardiac Rehabilitation is an educational and supervised exercise program for those diagnosed with cardiovascular disease. Individuals with a variety of heart conditions can participate in cardiac rehabilitation. Whether you have been diagnosed with coronary artery disease, valve disease, heart failure, arrhythmias, peripheral artery disease or have had some type of heart surgery – you could benefit from attending cardiac rehabilitation.

Gord: Anyone with an eligible diagnosis or procedure can attend Cardiac Rehabilitation.  Examples would include heart attacks, heart failure, valve diseases, congenital heart disease, arrhythmias like atrial fibrillation, and most cardiac surgeries.

Is there a cost for it? 

Gord: Most of the services provided in cardiac rehabilitation in Manitoba are covered by Manitoba Health or Regional Health Authorities.  There are fees associated with programs, at Reh-fit and the Wellness Institute it is $270 + tax.

Lisa: Cardiac Rehabilitation is partially subsidized by the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority (WRHA). Some private insurance plans cover cardiac rehabilitation. You may also qualify for further subsidy based on your household income – contact your local cardiac rehabilitation site for more details. (Wellness Institute at 204.632.3907 or the Reh-Fit at 204.488.8023).

Do I need a referral from my doctor to start cardiac rehab after a heart attack? 

Lisa: If you have recently been admitted to the hospital with a heart condition, a Cardiac Rehab referral can be submitted directly from the hospital. You can also discuss Cardiac Rehab with your physician or nurse practitioner.

Gord: No, many hospitals across Canada including St Boniface automatically send referrals to Cardiac Rehabilitation following a heart attack.  You can also “self-refer” which means to contact the Cardiac Rehab program on your own and begin the intake process. The staff can request any necessary medical records for you.

I find myself not feeling well after my heart attack. Can I still benefit from cardiac rehabilitation?

Gord: Some people can feel tired or unwell following surgery, when starting new medications, or even may have ongoing symptoms related to their heart disease.  While it is important to discuss any concerning symptoms with your doctor, Cardiac Rehabilitation is still safe and can even help to improve symptoms and energy level in many cases.  The program team will help you to figure out whether there are any concerns with your ability to exercise safely.

Lisa: Staff members are available to discuss your specific health concerns and will help you navigate living an active life with heart disease. Learn how to make lifestyle changes, manage your heart condition and safely increase your endurance and strength under the guidance of health professionals.

What if I live rurally, and there are no cardiac rehabilitation programs near me? 

Lisa: There are several rural Cardiac Rehab sites throughout Manitoba - https://wrha.mb.ca/groups/cardiac-rehabilitation/other-programs/ . You may also be eligible to participate in Cardiac Rehab from home with a combination of virtual/home programming.  

Gord: There are virtual and hybrid options available.  There is also a resource library included with the program so you can watch videos when it’s convenient for you.  Staff will also be able to support you in keeping active locally in your community.

I don't have anyone to help me through this. Is support available for me? 

Gord: The programs have a lot of different supports to help you through your recovery – psychologists, exercise specialists, nurses, dietitians, and other people who are often going through similar things.

Lisa: Being diagnosed with a heart condition can be scary. Knowledgeable staff are available to guide you through your rehabilitation and they may be able to recommend other community support. Patients who participate in on-site programming often comment that the group setting is very supportive and beneficial for one’s mental health.

Thank you, Lisa and Gord, for all of your dedication to improving patient care! 

For more information on cardiac rehab programs at RehFit Centre, visit www.reh-fit.com 

For more information on cardiac rehab programs at The Wellness Institute, visit www.wellnessinstitute.ca