Cardiac Rehab

Life After Your Cardiac Event Begins Today

Is Cardiac Rehab for Me?

WakeMed Cardiac Rehab offers a safe, monitored environment where you can gain the strength, confidence, camaraderie and nutritional know-how you need to live a heart-healthy life.

The WakeMed Cardiac Rehab specialists welcome patients who have or had:

• A recent heart attack
• Cardiac bypass surgery
• Angioplasty or stent placement
• Valve repair or replacement surgery
• A heart transplant
• Stable angina
• Heart failure

Patients with ventricular assist devices also benefit from our program.

A Program Designed Just for You

The WakeMed Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation team works with you to develop a program that's right for you. In general, here is what you can expect.

• An initial education and consultation meeting with the exercise/fitness specialist and nurse
• Six to 36 monitored, group exercise sessions
• Up to five small group nutrition education sessions
• Up to two individual sessions with a psychosocial counselor

Your Team of Specialists  

The WakeMed Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is medically directed by a physician - typically a cardiologist - and administered by nurses, counselors, nutritionists, therapists and exercise specialists.

Monitored Exercise 

A nurse and exercise/fitness specialist monitor your heart rate, blood pressure and heart rhythm while you do cardiovascular exercise, such as walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike.

Confidence & Camaraderie 

Exercising in a safe environment where your vital signs are continuously monitored and health care professionals are present is one way heart patients gain the confidence they need to go out and exercise on their own.  Another way is through the great camaraderie that develops in the group setting.

It's comforting to know that everyone who is enrolled in the WakeMed Outpatient Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is recovering from a cardiac event just like you are. From sharing recipes, to offering stress-reduction tips, to helping you move to the next exercise level, program groups are a great means of support.

Insurance Coverage & Physician Referral

Most insurance plans partially or fully cover the cost of cardiac rehabilitation.  Check with your health insurance provider before starting cardiac rehabilitation.  If you need help, speak to your doctor or ask us for assistance.  You will need a referral from your physician to participate in our program.