AMC Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program
The pulmonary rehab team can answer your questions about living effectively with lung disease.
The program staff includes physical therapists, respiratory therapists, registered nurses and registered dieticians. These specially trained individuals work together to help pulmonary rehab participants rebuild their self-confidence, strength and endurance. Each participant receives a personalized rehab program based on evaluation, education and exercise.
Evaluation
When your doctor refers you to the pulmonary rehabilitation program, the first
step is a careful evaluation. This allows your physician and respiratory
therapist to assess your health history and use diagnostic testing to measure
your physical limitations.
Education
What should you know about pulmonary disease? Through one-on-one education and
small group classes, you will learn how to cope with your specific type of lung
disease and assist to improve your quality of life.
Exercise
Regular exercise improves the body’s ability to use oxygen by building your
strength and endurance. Each rehab visit includes exercise that is supervised by
the program staff. You will be taught how to exercise safely within your
physical limits.
When and Where
Pulmonary rehabilitation lasts 6-12 weeks depending on individual needs. The
average length of participation is 8 weeks. Participants attend three 60-90
minute sessions per week in the cardiac-pulmonary rehabilitation area at the
Augusta Medical Center.
Support Persons Welcome
Support persons (such as spouse, daughter, son or friend) are encouraged to
attend sessions. Many patients welcome this support during their rehabilitation
sessions. The support person gains a better understanding of lung disease and is
better equipped to give encouragement to the participant when the home exercise
plan is established.
Take the first step
Call (540) 332-4107 or 932-4107 for more information.