Pulmonary Rehabilitation

The Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital is designed to help individuals whose daily lives have been affected by Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPDs) such as emphysema, chronic bronchitis, asthma and restrictive lung diseases such as fibrosis.

What can the program do for me?

The program enhances the patient’s quality of life, maximizing improvements and minimizing the impact of the illness on the patient and family members through breathing retraining techniques, education, bronchial hygiene, medications, and a supervised, individually-monitored exercise program.

Additionally, participation in a rehabilitation program has been shown to decrease required hospitalizations for those with lung diseases.

What are the program’s goals?

To contain and alleviate, as much as possible, the symptoms and complications of respiratory illness and to have all participants actively involved in their own health care. Family participation and support is critical to the success of the program.

How does the program work?

The patient is referred by their physician to the program, and undergoes diagnostic testing. The Pulmonary Rehab Team conducts an interview and evaluation, then the pulmonary physician (pulmonologist) reviews the goals set by the individual and the team to prescribe an exercise program.

Our pulmonologist and respiratory care practitioners have developed each individual program using stationary bikes, treadmills, and other exercise equipment. This exercise program helps improve muscle function and the ability to perform daily activities.

How long is the program?

Most participants are in the program for approximately 12 weeks, meeting three times per week (Monday, Tuesday, and Thursday) for one hour each. We encourage participants to maintain a routine of strength and endurance exercise with a Phase III program that is available after completing the 12-week sessions.

How much does the program cost?

The cost is determined by the needs of the individual since the program is tailored to each person. Medicare and several medical insurance plans will reimburse a major portion of the program.

To learn more about the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program at Adventist La Grange Memorial Hospital, or to schedule an appointment, please call us at 708-245-3636.