ARK-LA-TEX — During Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, observed annually during the second full week of February, CHRISTUS Health is highlighting cardiac rehabilitation as a critical but underutilized treatment for heart disease.
Hundreds of thousands of patients in the United States survive heart attacks, heart surgery or other cardiac events each year. Studies show only about 20% to 30% of eligible patients enroll in cardiac rehabilitation programs, despite evidence demonstrating significant health benefits.
“Cardiac rehab goes beyond helping patients regain their strength. It equips them with the knowledge and support they need to lead a longer and healthier life,” said Sherry Free, a registered nurse for cardiac rehabilitation with CHRISTUS Health in Shreveport-Bossier. “It remains one of the most powerful tools we have for preventing future heart issues.”
Cardiac rehabilitation is a physician-referred, medically supervised program that combines structured exercise, education and counseling to help patients improve heart health, reduce stress and rebuild strength. Evidence shows patients who complete cardiac rehabilitation experience a 30% reduction in hospital readmissions and improved long-term survival compared with those who do not participate.
Despite those outcomes, barriers such as limited awareness, inconsistent referrals, transportation challenges and safety concerns continue to prevent eligible patients from enrolling. Cardiac Rehabilitation Week aims to increase awareness among patients and providers about the role of rehabilitation following a cardiac event.
In addition to physical recovery, cardiac rehabilitation programs address mental and emotional health. Depression and anxiety are common among cardiac patients, and participation in structured rehabilitation has been shown to improve emotional well-being and confidence.
“Many patients come to us worried about being active again,” said Brooke Chilcoat, lead respiratory therapist for CHRISTUS Health in Texarkana. “With a guided, closely monitored program, they build back their physical strength and confidence while also learning how to better manage key risk factors such as high blood pressure, cholesterol and stress.”
As the health system continues to emphasize prevention and value-based care, officials said cardiac rehabilitation remains a proven approach to improving outcomes and reducing costs. During Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, providers are encouraging patients, caregivers and clinicians to view cardiac rehabilitation as a core component of recovery rather than an optional service.
More information is available on the CHRISTUS Health website.