Locations and how to schedule

Inova Schar Heart and Vascular’s Cardiac Rehabilitation programs provide comprehensive behavior and lifestyle management education, along with supervised exercise, for adults with heart disease. The program may begin during a hospital stay and is also available to outpatients. Enrollment requires a physician referral, and our team is happy to assist in contacting your provider to obtain one on your behalf. 

What are the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation offers a range of benefits, including:

  • Lower blood pressure
  • Better cholesterol levels
  • Enhanced circulation
  • Effective diabetes management
  • Increased flexibility and balance
  • Comprehensive knowledge for lifestyle modifications 
  • Customized nutritional plans for heart-healthy diets
  • Boosted self-confidence
  • Enhanced strength and endurance
  • Effective stress and anxiety management

Inpatient transition care: While hospitalized, a clinician will meet with you and your family to explain the cardiac rehabilitation program. During this session, they will address any questions about heart disease and discuss initial activity guidelines.

Outpatient secondary prevention program: Open to anyone meeting the participation criteria and most insurance plans cover much of the cost. Our clinical teams will develop an education and exercise program for you based on a clinical assessment of your diagnosis, risk factors, and knowledge level. These outpatient programs are available at Inova Alexandria, Inova Fairfax, Inova Loudoun, and Inova Mount Vernon hospitals. 

  • Personalized care to monitor your exercise progression and educational needs. As a participant you will:
  • Increase understanding of your cardiovascular condition and treatment.
  • Receive support and guidance for lifestyle changes to decrease your disease risk.
  • Improve your cardiovascular conditioning for both work and recreational activities.

Cardiac rehabilitation disease management program: A self-pay option for people who may not have insurance benefits that offer coverage for cardiac rehabilitation. These sessions and educational opportunities are offered in the same format as that of our secondary prevention program. The cost is based on a package of 12 sessions or 24 sessions.

Cardiac lifestyle care program: A remote patient care program connecting individuals who have been diagnosed with or undergone procedures for cardiovascular disease with a clinical team to support lifestyle management and behavior change. This program enables you to receive clinical guidance and connection in the location of your choice. Virtual and messaging connections with your clinician are supported through MyChart. Through MyChart you will also receive individualized education and exercise planning. In addition, your clinician will provide ongoing monitoring and feedback through device-transmitted clinical data, which may include blood pressure, glucose, pulse oximetry, weight, heart rate, and steps per day. This information is transmitted from devices such as smartwatches, blood pressure cuffs, pulse oximeters, scales, and other data-collection platforms. The virtual care program offers flexibility for you to participate in managing your cardiovascular health through a clinician-supported platform at a pace and location that best meet your care needs.

Cardiac wellness program: A bridge program for individuals who have completed the initial, comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program and want to continue to exercise independently with some clinical supervision. This program provides a supportive environment for continued cardiac wellness efforts. The cost is based on a package of 12 sessions or 24 sessions.

If you are interested in learning more about our cardiac rehabilitation program, please call 571-472-3070 or reach out directly to one of our four program locations. A physician’s referral is required to enroll in the program. We will be happy to assist in contacting your physician to obtain one on your behalf.

Our team consists of experienced healthcare professionals including:

  • Exercise physiologists 
  • Registered dietitians 
  • Registered nurses 
  • Physical therapists 
  • Respiratory therapists

The clinical team offers a complete and personalized heart disease management program for you. The team will keep your providers informed of your progress and any clinical needs as they arise.

Webinars

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Plant Based Eating for Heart Health with Mark Rudich, MS, RDN
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Weight Loss for Heart Health: How to Leave Dieting Behind with Kelly Ellington, RDN, CSOWM
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Mindful, intuitive eating for health: ditching the diet and feeding the soul with Lauren Trahan, MS, RD

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Facts and Fallacies About Fats and Fibers with Kelsey Coulter, RDN, and Kelly Ellington, RDN, CSOWM
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Spotlight on Sodium: Tips for Cooking and Eating Out with Kelsey Coulter, RDN, and Kelly Ellington, RDN, CSOWM