At Rangely District Hospital (RDH), we’re dedicated to helping our community live healthier, longer lives — especially those facing heart and lung challenges. As part of our Cardiopulmonary Department, our Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation services blend personalized care, expert clinical oversight, and evidence-based therapy techniques to support patients at every stage of recovery and chronic disease management.

What Is Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation?

Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation is a medically supervised, comprehensive program designed to improve the health and quality of life for individuals who have heart disease, chronic lung conditions, or who are recovering from cardiac or pulmonary events or procedures. It combines carefully monitored exercise with education, lifestyle coaching, and symptom management to help patients regain strength and confidence.

RDH’s Cardiopulmonary Rehab sits within our broader Cardiopulmonary Department — staffed by registered and certified respiratory therapists credentialed by the National Board for Respiratory Care and licensed by Colorado. Our team also provides 24/7 coverage for respiratory and cardiac emergencies, ensuring continuity of care whenever patients need it.

Who Benefits From the Program?

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation supports individuals with a range of cardiac and pulmonary conditions, including but not limited to:

• Heart attack recovery
• Coronary artery disease and angioplasty recovery
• Heart surgery (e.g., bypass, valve repair)
• Heart failure stabilization
• Chronic Lung Disease (COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis)
• Lung surgery recovery
• Other chronic respiratory conditions that limit breathing and activity

These conditions often result in reduced exercise tolerance, shortness of breath, and decreased independence — challenges cardiopulmonary rehabilitation aims to address.

Core Components of the Program

1. Supervised Exercise Training
Under clinical supervision, patients participate in individualized exercise sessions. These activities — from light treadmill walking to breathing exercises — help improve cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and overall stamina. Monitoring includes heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen levels, and patient response to activity to safely progress intensity.

2. Education and Lifestyle Coaching
Education is central to success. Patients learn about:

• How cardiovascular and pulmonary conditions affect the body
• Medication use and symptom monitoring
• Healthy nutrition and weight management
• Smoking cessation strategies
• Stress reduction and mental health support
• How to maintain gains after the program ends

This knowledge empowers patients to take an active role in their long-term health journey.

3. Personalized Plans & Ongoing Support
No two patients are alike — therapy plans are tailored to individual needs, goals, and medical histories. Physical limitations, personal interests, and lifestyle are all factored into creating a safe and effective plan for recovery.

Benefits That Matter

Research and clinical practice strongly support the value of cardiopulmonary rehabilitation:

Heart Health Gains

• Reduces risk of future cardiac events by improving cardiovascular function and fitness.
• Lowers rehospitalization rates and long-term deaths from heart disease.
• Supports better cholesterol, blood pressure, and glucose control.

Lung Function Improvement

• Improves breathing efficiency and reduces shortness of breath for chronic lung disease patients.
• Helps patients manage symptoms and daily activity through breathing strategies and exercise tolerance training.

Psychosocial & Lifestyle Benefits

• Reduces anxiety and depression symptoms often associated with chronic health conditions.
• Enhances overall quality of life and confidence in managing health.
• Encourages sustainable healthy habits, which contribute to long-term wellness.

Why RDH’s Program Is Unique

At RDH, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation isn’t just clinical — it’s personal. Our team’s compassionate care is built around your life, your goals, and your capabilities. We prioritize:

• Accessibility: Provided right here in the Rangely community.
• Individualized attention: Tailored programs that consider your unique health background.
• Holistic support: Collaborative care with other hospital departments to ensure seamless treatment from diagnosis to rehab and beyond.

Take the Next Step Toward Better Health

Cardiopulmonary rehabilitation at Rangely District Hospital helps you breathe easier, strengthen your body, and regain confidence in your health every step of the way. Whether you’re recovering from a serious event or managing a chronic condition, our team is here to support you.

To learn more about the program or referral information, contact RDH’s Cardiopulmonary Department. Your heart — and lungs — will thank you.