February is Heart Month

February is American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart health and empower individuals to take steps toward preventing and managing cardiovascular disease. At Floyd Valley Healthcare, we are proud to support our communities with comprehensive cardiac rehab and cardiopulmonary departments that help detect and recover from cardiac events and help our patients breathe just a bit easier.

Addressing a growing local need, Floyd Valley Healthcare completed yet another renovation and expansion in late 2024 that included updated and expanded cardiac rehab and cardiopulmonary departments.

“Thanks to the recent renovation, we’re now better equipped than ever to provide individualized care that can help our patients live their very best lives,” Micah Bonderson, RT, Floyd Valley cardiopulmonary manager.

Floyd Valley Healthcare recently completed another major renovation that includes the Maternal Health Department, Cardiopulmonary and Cardiac Rehab areas. These upgrades were designed to create a more comfortable, accessible and efficient space for patients and staff. From advanced exercise equipment to respiratory support tools that improve cardiovascular fitness, the new space reflects their commitment to providing local, high-quality, patient-centered care.

“Our goal was to create environments that offer technology-driven assessments and therapies while fostering healing and encouragement,” says Bonderson. “The updates we’ve made are already making a difference in how patients experience their recovery journey.”

Cardiac rehab is a medically supervised program designed to improve the health and well-being of individuals recovering from heart attacks, heart surgery or stroke, or affected by heart disease. These programs combine exercise and education to help patients regain strength and resilience.

“Our cardiac rehab program is about more than just physical recovery,” says Dr. Andrew Geha. “We give patients the tools and confidence they need to manage their condition, prevent future complications and lead full lives without limitations.”

Cardiac rehab typically begins with an assessment to understand each patient’s needs. Our healthcare team will develop an individually tailored plan with the patient’s primary healthcare provider or specialist to achieve the best possible outcomes.

“Patients prescribed cardiac rehab typically participate in monitored exercise sessions to gradually rebuild cardiovascular strength,” says Bonderson. “Many patients look forward to their appointments that include activities like walking on treadmills, cycling and strength training. We monitor heart rate, blood pressure and oxygen levels to ensure safety and track their improvement; plus, it can help strengthen social connections for patients who only leave home for medical appointments.”

Heart-healthy living, nutritional advice, stress management techniques and strategies for managing conditions like hypertension or diabetes complete the educational component of a patient’s therapy plan. The cardiac rehab team works with patients to address important lifestyle changes like quitting smoking, losing weight and developing an at-home exercise routine to stay active.”

The providers and staff at Floyd Valley Healthcare focus on more than just physical rehabilitation and recognize that emotional support is a critical component of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.

“Recovering from a cardiac event can be overwhelming, and honestly, scary,” says Dr. Geha. “Our team helps patients cope with the psychological and emotional challenges that can impact their recovery and quality of life.”

Patients who commit to rehab often see significant improvements in their physical and emotional well-being.

“I’ve seen patients who struggle with small daily activities show real improvement,” says Bonderson. “This is the most rewarding part of my job.”

Research shows that cardiac rehabilitation reduces the risk of a second heart attack and lowers mortality rates. It’s an essential step in recovery and an opportunity to regain control of patients’ health.

“Cardiac rehab isn’t just for people who’ve had a heart attack,” says Bonderson. “It’s for anyone living with a chronic heart condition. Our program is designed to meet patients wherever they are on their journey.”

Floyd Valley Healthcare’s newly renovated cardiac rehab and cardiopulmonary departments are a testament to their dedication to patient care and innovation. By combining advanced facilities with a compassionate, expert team, they help patients achieve healthier, active lives.

“If you or a loved one is living with a cardiac condition, don’t hesitate to ask your healthcare provider about cardiac rehab,” says Bonderson. “Recovery is possible, and we’re here to help every step of the way.”

For more information about cardiac rehabilitation at Floyd Valley Healthcare, call (712) 546-3383 or visit floydvalley.org.