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Valley’s cardiac rehabilitation program will help you to recover, build strength, and gain confidence after a heart attack, cardiac surgery, angioplasty, or other cardiac event. Our rehabilitation program features monitored cardiac rehab exercises, education, and support – all you need to heal and move toward a healthy future. 

What is Cardiac Rehab?

Cardiac rehab is a comprehensive, medically supervised program that can help you improve your physical fitness, reduce cardiac symptoms, enhance your overall health, and reduce your risk of future heart problems. This can be achieved through a combination of exercise, education, and lifestyle modifications. 

Led by a board-certified cardiologist, Valley’s cardiac rehab team comprises registered nurses, exercise physiologists, and a registered dietitian. They look at the full picture of your heart health and collaborate to develop a plan that meets your specific needs. Your cardiac rehabilitation program will include: 

  • Supervised cardiac rehab exercises for people of all abilities, to build your strength and stamina
  • Nutrition counseling to teach you healthy eating habits
  • Educational programs about your overall health and wellness, including ways to make simple lifestyle changes to reduce future cardiac risk

The Valley Approach to Cardiac Rehab

There are many reasons for cardiac rehabilitation. You may have experienced a major cardiac event, been diagnosed with chronic heart disease, or are at risk for developing future heart issues. Our cardiac rehab team is highly skilled in caring for patients with: 

The primary goals of cardiac rehab are to:

  • Help you get stronger
  • Reduce your risk for future heart problems
  • Improve your overall quality of life

Your rehab team will collaborate with you to design a plan tailored to your specific needs. They’re dedicated to helping you experience a comfortable exercise program and a smooth recovery. 

The team will answer any questions you may have, including taking care of your incision and your body after surgery; confronting any physical and emotional challenges; and finding solutions to making changes in your diet, lifestyle, work, and daily activities as you recover. 

Valley’s state-of-the-art cardiac rehab facilities in Paramus and Mahwah feature exercise technology and equipment that can accommodate all levels of physical fitness, even if your mobility is limited. You will experience a nurturing atmosphere enhanced by natural lighting, soothing décor, and large windows overlooking trees and the outside environment.   

What to Expect with Cardiac Rehab at Valley

Valley provides three phases of cardiac rehabilitation:

  • Phase 1 starts at the bedside when you are in the hospital. 
  • Phase 2 is a monitored outpatient program at the Valley Health System Medical Arts Pavilion in Paramus. 
  • Phase 3 is an independent outpatient program offered at Valley Health LifeStyles in Mahwah. 

Most health insurance plans cover phase 1 and phase 2 cardiac rehab programs. Phase 3 is a self-pay program.

Learn more about the phases of cardiac rehab.

Why Choose Valley for Cardiac Rehab?

  • Recognized for quality cardiac rehab care: Our cardiac rehab facilities are certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. This certification recognizes Valley’s proven track record of providing the most advanced and highest quality heart rehabilitation to our patients.
  • Team approach to rehab: Your rehab team works closely with your cardiologist and other heart care specialists to treat all your heart needs. Together, they can make any adjustments to your care to ensure your rehab goes as smoothly as possible.
  • Modern equipment and techniques: Our state-of-the-art cardiac rehab facilities are equipped with the latest fitness and rehab equipment that can accommodate all levels of physical activity. We also use cardiac telemetry monitoring and electronic reporting technology that monitors your heart activity. This technology then relays this information to your physician to help them monitor your progress in rehab.
  • Benefits of cardiac rehab: Research shows that cardiac rehab can be as effective as medications in improving your quality and length of life. Research also shows that cardiac rehab can reduce your risk for future heart problems.

How to Get Started with Cardiac Rehab

If you are an inpatient at The Valley Hospital, your phase 1 cardiac rehab program will start at the bedside. If you are undergoing a same-day procedure, you will receive information before you leave the hospital. 

If you are enrolling in the monitored phase 2 program or the independent phase 3 program, you will need these to get started: 

  • Referral: You’ll need an evaluation and referral from your physician for phase 2. Depending on your health issues, you may need physician clearance for phase 3.
  • Insurance coverage: Phase 1 and phase 2 are usually covered by most insurance plans and Medicare/Medicaid. We recommend contacting your insurance carrier about your coverage. Phase 3 is a self-pay program. 
  • Length of rehab: Phase 2 typically consists of 24 to 36 sessions based on your needs. Phase 3 is an open-ended program.