Pulmonary Rehabilitation at St. Vincent’s Birmingham is a medically directed, nurse supervised, exercise monitored, and education focused program to help individuals with breathing problems and lung disorders to restore levels of function and to improve quality of life.
The program is designed to provide individualized plans to guide patients during program participation. Our multidisciplinary team consists of ACLS (Advanced Cardiac Life Support) certified registered nurses, an exercise specialist, a respiratory therapist, registered dietitians, registered pharmacists, and a registered diabetes educator to provide the most up-to-date information relating to the management of pulmonary conditions.
Expected Benefits from this Program
- Reduce symptoms of shortness of breath & fatigue
- Increase muscular strength and endurance
- Increase ability to perform daily activities
- Increase knowledge in lung management
- Prevent respiratory exacerbation & episodes of hospitalization
- Reduce anxiety and depression
Components of Pulmonary Rehab Program
- Medical management
- Exercise
- Education
- Nutrition counseling
- Emotional support
Medical Management
Once you are enrolled, our team works closely with our Medical Director to formulate a plan of care tailored just for you. Periodically, we will update your referring physician on your progress. Adjustment of your rehabilitation plan will be formulated to meet the changing demand of your medical condition as warranted.
Exercise
Our exercise specialist formulates an exercise prescription based on your current functional level. Each week modifications will be made to meet your physical needs. You will be taught how to exercise, what symptoms to look for, and how to exercise within your target parameters. A written plan will be there for you to follow.
Education
Based on your initial evaluation, an education plan will be outlined. Weekly classes will be offered by our multidisciplinary team as well as individualized learning to help you to manage your lung condition. Some of the classes are listed below:
- Breathing and relaxation techniques
- Understanding lung disease
- Infection prevention
- Nutrition education
- Stress management & panic control
- How to monitor yourself during exercise
- Pulmonary Medication management
Nutrition Counseling
Your eating habits will be assessed during the admission process. A score will show how you are doing regarding healthy food choices. Recommendations will be made to assist you to achieve the optimum nutritional goal.
Emotional Support
Other pulmonary patients with similar conditions will cheer you on as you are going through the program. They cheer for your success and provide encouragement. Our chaplain is available to help navigate your ups and downs.
Qualified Entrance to the Program
Our pulmonary rehabilitation program is designed for patients with a variety of respiratory conditions: The following diagnoses are the most common to gain entry to the program:
- COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
- Asthma
- Chronic bronchitis
- Emphysema
- Pulmonary Fibrosis
- Other lung conditions (i.e. lung transplant, lung reduction surgery…)
Since it’s a medically supervised program, we will need a referral from your doctor that indicates the need for pulmonary rehabilitation. The program generally lasts up to 12 - 18 weeks or 36 visits. Each session lasts one hour with 3 times per week attendance.
Hours of Operation
Monday, Wednesday & Thursday: 7:30am – 4:00pm
Tuesday & Friday: Individualized evaluation
Where to Park
Free parking is available in the Professional Building III (POB III) Deck. Valet service is also available and can be arranged in advance. For a printable campus map, click here.
Your First Appointment
You will have a one-on-one evaluation with a rehab professional to identify your risk factors for lung disease, to establish your personal and exercise goals, and to assess your current functional capacity. Please dress comfortably and wear comfortable shoes. Be sure to bring your insurance card and your current medications list.
Insurance Coverage
Most insurance plans do cover a percentage of the Pulmonary Rehab. You will need to check with your provider on the back of your insurance card to verify coverage.
How to Contact Pulmonary Rehabilitation
We are located at 833 St. Vincent’s Drive, Professional Building III Suite 100 on the ground floor. You may also contact us by calling 205-939-7139 or by fax at 205-939-2636. If you would like to learn more about our program, feel free to come by and discuss with our professional staff.
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