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The rehabilitation program is available to all cardiac patients who have experienced heart failure, a heart attack, heart surgery or angioplasty. The program is also preventive in that we work with patients who are at risk for heart disease to maintain a healthy lifestyle and avoid heart problems. The goal of rehabilitation through wellness education and exercise is restoring patients to their healthiest capacity possible so they can enjoy life. Patients discuss with exercise physiologists and physicians their lifestyle choices and receive counseling on diet, smoking cessation and other things important to the individual patient. Rehabilitation services are available in Herkimer and will soon be available in Oneonta and Cooperstown and other locations in the future.
Bassett Healthcare Phase I Cardiac Rehabilitation is a program which helps people who are admitted to the hospital with a heart attack to begin the healing process. The Phase I Cardiac Rehabilitation Team consists of a Cardiac Rehabilitation Specialist, Physical Therapists, and Registered Dietitians.
The Rehabilitation Specialist provides education on Risk Factors for Coronary Artery Disease such as Smoking, Physical Inactivity, Hypertension, and Stress with the emphasis on helping the patient prepare for lifestyle changes that he/she can make to reduce their risk of future cardiovascular events.
The Physical Therapists provide assistance with "early mobilization" which means gradually progressing their level of activity during their hospital stay in order to decrease the negative effects that prolonged bed rest can have on the heart.
The Registered Dietitian makes recommendations regarding dietary changes the individual can make to reduce their risk. This generally involves a low fat, low cholesterol, high fiber and limited salt diet. The recommendations from all of the team members are individualized however to meet the specific needs of each patient.
The Phase I Team works together with the Nurses and Physicians caring for the patient to help him/her through the emotional and physical aspects of a heart attack. This Phase starts the process of lifestyle change that is essential to helping the individual with heart disease lead an active and healthy life.
The cardiac rehabilitation program assists patients recovering from heart attacks, heart surgery, angioplasty and those at high risk for cardiac disease. It is the goal of our staff to work with the patient in achieving his or her highest level of physical function.
Each patient is thoroughly evaluated and then placed on an individual prescription program for exercise that is designed to strengthen the heart.
Our state-of-the-art cardiac monitoring system ensures that your vital signs are continually being assessed as you use our cardiac exercise equipment.
Proper nutrition and understanding what you can do to improve your heart health are essential. Our staff will meet with you to provide information and discuss your questions and concerns so that you may understand the benefits of a healthy lifestyle.
What does the program entail?
After a review of the patient's health history and a complete patient assessment, patients are placed on a supervised exercise routine. Patients come three times per week for one-hour exercise sessions for eight to twelve weeks. A heart monitor worn during the sessions enables staff to closely watch each patient's tolerance of physical activity.
How do I enroll?
A referral from your primary care provider or cardiologist and insurance pre-authorization is necessary to begin the cardiac rehabilitation program.
Does insurance cover the cost?
A physician's referral and insurance pre-authorization are needed to start the cardiac rehabilitation program. Bassett Healthcare accepts most health insurance plans, including Medicare, that cover the cost of cardiac rehabilitation. A co-payment may be required for each exercise session.
For more information regarding Phase II Cardiac Rehabilitation, please call Bassett Healthcare at 607-547-6673.
Valley Health Services in Herkimer offers similar services for patients from the Mohawk Valley. For more information, please call Valley Health Services at 315-866-3330, ext. 149. | 
