What Is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?
Pulmonary rehabilitation is an individualized outpatient program for patients with chronic respiratory impairment. The program begins with a comprehensive assessment by a registered nurse. Based on the assessment and physician recommendations, a specially designed exercise plan is created to optimize physical performance. The program also includes education and training for living with lung disease, prevention of illness, and improving emotional well-being.
Who Qualifies?
A physician referral is required for admission to the program. If you have a diagnosis of COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), asthma, restrictive lung disease, lung cancer, or you have had or are planning a lung surgery, you may be eligible. This is a very brief list of the most common diagnoses, so ask your physician if pulmonary rehabilitation is appropriate for your condition. If you have experienced a reduction in your physical activity, occupational performance, or your activities of daily living related to your lung disease, you may benefit from outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation.
