PINEHURST — FirstHealth of the Carolinas is proud to announce the certification of its cardiac rehabilitation programs offered in Pinehurst, Rockingham and Sanford by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. This certification is recognition of FirstHealth’s longstanding commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care.
The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at FirstHealth is dedicated to helping patients with heart disease adopt a healthier lifestyle. The program includes education, counseling and exercise in a friendly environment. Participants who attend regular classes develop a camaraderie that is supportive and helps the healing process.
Melissa Stewart, R.N., serves as clinical director of FirstHealth Cardiac Rehabilitation.
“Recovering after a heart event can be daunting for patients, especially when it comes to beginning an exercise program,” said Stewart. “Our team is deeply committed to supporting each patient’s journey through personalized education and exercise. Our program is tailored to help patients regain their health faster and with greater confidence, ultimately enhancing their quality of life.”
To earn accreditation, FirstHealth’s cardiac rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other related professional societies. Each program’s application is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee, and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors.
In 2018, AACVPR moved to an outcomes-based process with performance measurements that represent more meaningful outcomes. Therefore, AACVPR-certified programs are leaders in the cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation field because they offer the most advanced practices available and have proven track records of high-quality patient care. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years.
The FirstHealth Cardiac Rehabilitation Program is dedicated to helping patients with heart disease adopt a healthier lifestyle. The program includes education, counseling and exercise in a friendly environment. Participants who attend regular classes develop a camaraderie that is supportive and helps the healing process. FirstHealth offers cardiac rehabilitation programs at FirstHealth Fitness in Pinehurst, Rockingham, Sanford and Troy.
