Patients recovering from a serious heart event can now complete cardiac rehabilitation at home through a University of Rochester Medicine program that combines exercise equipment, health monitoring tools and guidance from a health professional.
The virtual program gives patients across the Finger Lakes and Upstate New York an alternative to traveling to a rehabilitation center. Participants receive equipment to use at home and take part in a series of telehealth sessions to guide their recovery.
UR Medicine is working with digital health organization MOVN Health to provide the service, which it announced Oct. 30.
Patients start with a cardiologist’s referral
Patients interested in the program should speak with their cardiologist about a referral.
According to UR Medicine, cardiac rehabilitation is recommended following a heart attack, angioplasty with stent placement, coronary bypass surgery, heart valve repair or replacement, or a heart transplant. Patients with heart failure may also benefit.
Cardiac rehabilitation combines education and exercise to help patients rebuild strength and endurance while developing habits that support their recovery.
“This education and exercise regimen helps patients maximize their recovery from a serious heart event,” said Dr. Seth Jacobson, director of cardiac rehabilitation.
A home kit supports exercise and monitoring
Participants receive a specialized kit containing a scale, smartwatch, blood pressure monitor and exercise bands.
The equipment provides tools for exercising and checking health measurements at home. Patients also have a series of telehealth sessions with a health professional who guides them through the program.
That combination allows rehabilitation to take place outside a dedicated center while retaining professional support. The announcement does not specify how frequently sessions occur or how long the program lasts.
UR Medicine has offered in-person cardiac rehabilitation at Canal View in Brighton and at F.F. Thompson, St. James and Jones Memorial hospitals. The virtual option is intended to help patients who face travel difficulties or cannot easily fit center-based visits into their schedules.
“We’ve been providing this care at dedicated centers however; capacity and travel make it difficult for some patients across the region to participate,” Jacobson said.
Pilot participant built recovery into his daily routine
Chris Rollins, an Irondequoit business owner and soccer referee, completed the pilot program after doctors at Strong Memorial Hospital removed a blockage in his heart.
He found the home equipment helpful, and doing the exercises at home allowed him to return to work while keeping up with his family’s schedule.
“I feel better than I have in years. I exercise more, pay attention to my blood pressure, and watch what I eat,” Rollins said. “It is a key part of the program and the routine stuck with me.”
UR Medicine says most insurance plans cover virtual cardiac rehabilitation. Patients can discuss a referral with their cardiologist and confirm coverage and any out-of-pocket costs with their insurer.
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