Since February 2002, the outpatient cardiac rehabilitation program has assisted patients recovering from heart attacks, angioplasty, heart surgery, and those at high risk for cardiac disease.  In 2004, the program received certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. It is the goal of our staff to work with the patient in achieving his or her highest level of physical function.

Each patient is thoroughly evaluated and placed on an individualized prescription program for exercise that is designed to strengthen the heart.

Our state-of-the-art cardiac monitoring system ensures that the patient's vital signs are continually being assessed as the exercise equipment is being used. Proper nutrition and understanding the need for healthy eating habits are essential for cardiac health. Our dietitian meets with each patient and his family to provide information, answer questions and discuss concerns.

Our staff works with each patient and his family toward achieving a healthy lifestyle. The Community Resource Room houses many pamphlets and materials to aid in the education of successful cardiac rehabilitation.

Join our HEARTY HEARTS club!

The Hearty Hearts Club was formed in 2002 to allow cardiac rehab “graduates” an opportunity to continue seeing each other.  The club meets at Valley Health Services monthly for lunch, socialization and an occasional educational program.  Group members are current and former cardiac rehab patients and their spouses. 

What does the Cardiac Rehabilitation Program entail?
After a review of the patient's health history and a complete patient assessment, patients are placed on a supervised exercise routine. Patients come to Valley Health Services three times per week for one-hour exercise sessions for ten to twelve weeks. A heart monitor worn during the sessions enables staff to closely watch each patient's tolerance of physical activity.

How do I enroll?
A physician's referral is necessary to begin the cardiac rehabilitation program.

Does insurance cover the cost?
Valley Health Services accepts most major health insurance plans that cover the cost of cardiac rehabilitation, including Medicare. There may be a co-pay requirement.

Who can answer my other questions about cardiac rehabilitation?
For more information or to discuss further concerns, please contact the Valley Health Services Department of Rehabilitation at 315-866-3330 extension 149.

 Meet
Wendy Herkert, RN
Wendy is the program's cardiac rehabilitation nurse manager. She received her bachelor of science degree in nursing from Fairleigh-Dickinson University. Wendy has ten year's nursing experience in intensive care, eight year's nursing experience in a cardiac surgery recovery unit and one year's experience at the Mohawk Valley Heart Institute, Utica.
The cardiac rehabilitation program is generously supported by:

BlueCross BlueShield of Utica-Watertown
The Valley Health Services cardiac rehabilitation program received a BCBSUW Community Health Award.

The Community Foundation of Herkimer & Oneida Counties
The Foundation provided funding for the state-of-the-art telemetry and computer monitoring equipment and cardiac exercise equipment.

The Slocum-Dickson Foundation
Educational resources for the program were purchase with the support of the Foundation.

Excellence in Caring