Many People Never Complete Cardiac Rehabilitation Because Getting to Appointments is Difficult

Cone Health offers a virtual program that lets patients participate from home.

FAST FACTS

• Cardiac rehabilitation helps people recover after a heart attack or heart procedure, but many don’t enroll.
• Eligible patients can join live sessions from home using a computer or tablet.
• Medicare covers virtual cardiac rehabilitation for eligible patients.

Greensboro -- Cone Health brings virtual cardiac rehabilitation for eligible patients, right into their home. Virtual cardiac rehab is offered through Aviary Health and works alongside Cone Health's existing cardiac rehabilitation services. 

According to Aviary Health, people who go through the program are 38% less likely to go back into the hospital and 44% less likely to go to the emergency department with heart problems. Cardiac rehabilitation helps people recover and stay healthy after heart disease, but many people never take part. Work schedules, transportation challenges, distance and other barriers can make it hard to attend regular appointments. The new virtual option makes it easier for patients to get recommended care that can improve health and help prevent future hospital visits.

The program includes live exercise sessions, heart-health education, nutrition counseling, and support for managing stress and medications. Patients work directly with trained specialists and receive rehabilitation based on their needs. Sessions are live, not pre-recorded.

Patients who do not have the technology needed to participate can receive a tablet with internet access during the program. They also receive a recovery kit that includes items such as exercise bands and a blood pressure cuff.

The virtual program is especially helpful for people who have trouble traveling to appointments because of work, transportation issues, mobility concerns or long distances. Patients can choose the option that works best for them while staying connected to their care team.

"Cardiac rehabilitation can help people recover after a heart attack, heart procedure or heart failure, but too many never get the chance to complete it," said Dr. Traci Turner, medical director of cardiac rehab at Cone Health. "By offering a virtual option, we're making it easier for more people to get the support they need to improve their health, build confidence and stay out of the hospital."

Patients who think they may qualify for cardiac rehabilitation should talk with their cardiologist or healthcare provider.