The importance of cardiac rehabilitation at Nuvance Health

By Molly Leaden, M.S., ACSM

 

Cardiac rehabilitation is a vital part of recovery for individuals who have experienced a heart attack, undergone heart surgery or been diagnosed with a cardiovascular condition. At Nuvance Health, the comprehensive cardiac rehab program is designed to improve heart health, enhance quality of life and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.

 

“Cardiac rehab helps patients both physically and psychologically,” said Donna Pinelli, cardiac rehab supervisor for Vassar Brothers Medical Center and Northern Dutchess Hospital. “They can be afraid of how much they can do and what they are capable of. But after a couple of weeks, they gain confidence in their abilities.”

 

At Nuvance Health, there are cardiac rehab centers at each of our seven facilities: Danbury, New Milford, Norwalk, Sharon, Putnam and Northern Dutchess hospitals and Vassar Brothers Medical Center.

Learn more about cardiac rehabilitation at Nuvance Health.

Why cardiac rehab matters

Cardiac rehabilitation at Nuvance Health focuses on three key components:

1. Supervised exercise training — Regular, monitored exercise strengthens the heart muscle, improves circulation and boosts overall endurance. Patients work with cardiac specialists to create safe, personalized exercise plans tailored to their needs and recovery goals.
2. Heart-healthy education — Understanding risk factors, such as high cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes, empowers patients to make informed lifestyle changes. Nuvance Health provides expert guidance on nutrition, stress management and medication adherence to support long-term heart health.
3. Emotional and psychological support — Heart conditions can be life-changing, often leading to anxiety or depression. Nuvance Health integrates mental health support into the program, ensuring patients regain confidence and motivation throughout their recovery journey.

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Personalized, patient-centered care

At Nuvance Health, the cardiac rehab team consists of cardiologists, exercise physiologists, dietitians, nurses and behavioral health specialists who collaborate to provide individualized care. Their goal is not only to help patients recover but also to equip them with the tools necessary for long-term heart health and prevention of future complications.

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Why choose Nuvance Health for cardiac rehab?

• Access to multiple specialists — Patients receive care from a multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, exercise physiologists, registered dietitians and physical therapists, ensuring a comprehensive, targeted approach to rehabilitation.
• Experience in cardiac rehab — Whether recovering from cardiac surgery, a heart attack, valve replacement, an arrhythmia procedure or heart failure, Nuvance Health tailors each rehabilitation program to fit the patient’s unique needs and abilities.
• High-quality care close to home — With locations recognized by U.S. News & World Report for performance and quality, Nuvance Health offers convenient, specialized treatment without the need for extensive travel.

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How cardiac rehab works

Rehabilitation often begins in the hospital and continues in an outpatient setting, such as the patient’s home or a Nuvance Health facility. Outpatient cardiac rehab consists of medically supervised exercise programs conducted in a safe and supportive atmosphere.

 

Benefits of cardiac rehab

By participating in cardiac rehab at Nuvance Health, patients can significantly improve their heart function, lower their risk of future complications and enjoy a healthier, more active life. The program helps individuals take charge of their healing process, boosting both physical and psychological well-being.

 

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Ongoing support for heart health

Keeping the heart healthy is a lifelong journey. Nuvance Health supports patients with follow-up rehab appointments to monitor heart function, restore strength and maintain progress. By choosing Nuvance Health, patients receive expert guidance and continuous care tailored to their individual recovery needs.

 

If you or a loved one could benefit from cardiac rehab, consider reaching out to Nuvance Health to learn more about our specialized programs. Your heart deserves the best care — let Nuvance Health help you on your journey to recovery.

 

Learn more about cardiovascular services and treatments at Nuvance Health.

Molly Leaden is an exercise physiologist and Regional Manager of Cardiac Rehabilitation at Nuvance Health