SHREVEPORT, La. – As part of American Heart Month, CHRISTUS Health is raising awareness about the critical role of cardiac rehabilitation in recovery following a heart event or surgery. The program, which combines exercise, education, and lifestyle management, is proven to significantly reduce the risk of future cardiac issues while improving overall heart health.
“Cardiac rehab is not only essential for strengthening the heart, but it also provides valuable education that empowers patients to care for their heart health outside the hospital,” said Sherry Free, a cardiac rehab nurse at CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier.
The Benefits of Cardiac Rehab
According to One Million Hearts, a national initiative co-led by the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), patients who complete a 36-week cardiac rehab program experience a:
- 47% lower risk of death
- 31% lower risk of heart attack
Despite these significant benefits, participation in cardiac rehab remains low, particularly among women and minorities. The American Heart Association (AHA) reports that only 19-34% of eligible patients enroll in a program.
“Many patients hesitate to start cardiac rehab because they think they’re too old or feel intimidated by the equipment,” Free said. “But once they try it and experience the benefits, they want to continue.”
A Comprehensive Approach to Recovery
A physician referral is required for enrollment in a cardiac rehab program. Once admitted, patients receive:
- Exercise training to strengthen the heart
- Nutritional guidance to support heart-healthy eating habits
- Medication management
- Blood pressure and cholesterol monitoring
- Education on lifestyle changes to prevent future cardiac events
Traditionally, cardiac rehab has focused primarily on exercise, but CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier has expanded its approach through a partnership with Pritikin Intensive Cardiac Rehab. This program integrates heart-healthy nutrition and mindset education to address every aspect of a patient’s well-being.
Breaking Barriers to Access
Recognizing that some patients face challenges in attending rehab, CHRISTUS Health offers personalized programs to meet individual needs.
“We know that every patient is different, so we customize each plan to maximize their abilities,” Free said. “We celebrate everyone who takes the first step toward improving their heart health.”
Learn More
For more information about cardiac rehab and heart health services, visit www.christushealth.org.
About CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System
As part of CHRISTUS Health, CHRISTUS Shreveport-Bossier Health System is a faith-based, not-for-profit health system serving northwest Louisiana with two hospitals and nearly 2,000 associates. The system specializes in cardiovascular, oncology, orthopedic, neurological, primary care, surgical, and women’s and children’s services. Sponsored by the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of Houston, the Sisters of Charity of the Incarnate Word of San Antonio, and the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, CHRISTUS is committed to extending the healing ministry of Jesus Christ to every individual it serves.