National Cardiac Rehabilitation Week, observed February 12–18, is a time to raise awareness about the transformative impact of cardiac rehabilitation and to celebrate the successes of both the dedicated cardiac rehabilitation team and their patients. Cardiac rehabilitation is a comprehensive program that combines exercise, education, nutrition and lifestyle modification to support individuals recovering from heart conditions. This program has been proven to make a significant difference in the lives of many who have experienced a cardiac event.
“Cardiac rehabilitation not only helps patients recover but also provides a foundation for a healthier heart moving forward,” explained Katie Grubbs, director of the Cardiopulmonary Department at Blount Memorial Hospital. Education is a vital part of this process, focusing on heart-healthy eating, exercise and stress management. By equipping patients with the tools to make positive lifestyle changes, the program lays the groundwork for long-term cardiovascular health.
Medically monitored exercise begins during the inpatient phase of recovery. This stage helps patients regain muscle strength while staff monitor their heart to ensure safety during physical activity. “It’s all about safely getting patients back to their daily routines,” Grubbs said. Each rehabilitation plan is tailored to the patient’s specific needs and may include nutrition counseling as well as occupational, physical or respiratory therapy to address unique challenges.
For many patients, the journey continues with outpatient cardiac rehabilitation at Blount Memorial Hospital’s Medical Fitness Center. This phase includes medically supervised exercise, blood pressure monitoring and health education. It also provides a supportive environment where patients can connect with others facing similar challenges. “Once patients graduate from cardiac rehabilitation, we encourage them to join our Medical Fitness program,” Grubbs explained. “Registered nurses and exercise specialists monitor their progress, and updates are sent regularly to their primary care providers.”
For those who wish to transition to independent exercise, the Blount Memorial Wellness Centers at Cherokee and Springbrook offer a variety of resources, including state-of-the-art equipment, fitness classes and trainers who can help design personalized exercise plans. These options ensure that patients can maintain the momentum they’ve gained during their cardiac rehabilitation journey.
Cardiac rehabilitation is proven to help patients recover. In 2024, nearly 300 patients participated in cardiac rehabilitation sessions at Blount Memorial, accounting for more than 4,000 total visits. Many insurance plans cover up to 36 visits, and the results speak for themselves—96 percent of patients improved their metabolic equivalent of task (MET) values, a key measure of physical activity performance.
Cardiac rehabilitation is more than just a recovery program; it’s a path to a healthier, more active life. With a focus on education, exercise and ongoing support, the program allows patients to take control of their heart health and build a stronger future.
If you’ve experienced a cardiac event or want to learn more about cardiac rehabilitation, talk to your provider about a referral to cardiac rehabilitation at Blount Memorial Hospital.
