Infirmary Health provides an Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program
at Mobile Infirmary and Thomas Hospital. The program consists of exercise
and education for patients who are dealing with chronic lung diseases.
Participation in the program helps patients get on the road to better
lung health.
Program Overview
Beginning the Program
Exercise therapy improves the strength and efficiency of your muscles and
circulatory system which emphasizes walking performance while lowering
shortness of breath. In addition, beneficial efforts on walking performance
and shortness of breath usually occur.
Participation in the program begins with a referral from your physician.
A member of our team will follow up with you and begin the enrollment
process as directed by your doctor. An initial evaluation and orientation
will be scheduled. Your exercise plan depends on your physical condition.
The staff evaluates and progresses your activity on an individual basis.
Exercise
Exercise sessions are held two times per week. During your sessions, staff
members will observe your blood pressure, heart rate, oxygen saturation,
and overall response to exercise. Exercise space includes a variety of
exercise equipment and an indoor walking track. The program is tailored
to meet your personal needs.
Education
The education sessions are designed to provide participants with valuable
information on the following topics:
Lung disease
Breathing retraining
Medications
Healthy living
Airway management
Smoking cessation
Insurance
Medicare and many other insurance companies offer coverage for pulmonary
rehabilitation. You may contact your provider for coverage information.
Maintenance Program
The maintenance program enables you to ease slowly into more independent
exercise by providing the support you need to safely advance your exercise
program. The maintenance program offers flexible attendance times. An
adult family member or support person may exercise with you as a Breathing
Buddy for an additional fee. You may stay in the maintenance program indefinitely
for a monthly fee. A physician referral is required.