Providence Hood River R.N. Laney Gale assists cardiac rehabilitation program participant Roy Gaylord. “I came to the center five years ago when I saw a friend of mine having heart related issues,” say Gaylord. “It’s a way for me to take care of my heart so I can continue to do the things I love. I feel supported by and motivated by the cardiac rehabilitation team. They’re the driving force that keeps me coming back.”
Retired R.N. and current volunteer Laverne Treichel takes the first of many blood pressure readings at the free clinic every Tuesday. “I love this work,” Treichel says. “Many people use the free service and are always appreciative of our efforts in keeping them healthy.” |
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February 18, 2008
HOOD RIVER, Ore - February is the month we usually associate with the heart - not only because of Valentine’s Day, but also because it’s National American Heart Month. During American Heart Month, people can renew their commitment to fighting cardiovascular disease by increasing their awareness of this deadly disease and understanding how it can be prevented.
Every 34 seconds someone in the United States dies from heart disease. It’s the leading cause of death among American men and women, claiming hundreds of thousands of lives each year. Coronary heart disease is America's No. 1 killer. Stroke is No. 3 and a leading cause of serious disability. We are fortunate in Hood River to have a wealth of knowledge concerning heart health and wellness in the Providence clinics just across the street from Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital.
“At Providence Hood River Memorial Hospital, we are committed to supporting this awareness campaign during National Heart Month,” explained Ty W. Erickson, chief executive. “We offer people in our community an array of wellness options to help keep their hearts healthy. From expanded cardiology services to our cardiac rehabilitation center, to free blood pressure screenings, we are taking an active role in your care - helping you to enjoy a healthier future.”
Need A Cardiologist? Providence Hood River Announces expanded services
Providence Hood River is expanding its service to patients in its cardiology department. In cooperation with The Oregon Clinic, Providence Hood River will now have cardiovascular specialists available for patient appointments regularly. Previously, cardiologists has had only been available once a month. This enhances the support already available through Providence Hood River’s existing nursing services and cardiac rehabilitation center.
The Oregon Clinic cardiovascular specialists are Xiaoyan Huang, M.D., Ron Petersen, M.D., Aly Rahimtoola, M.D., Jody Welborn, M.D. and Lisa Yao, M.D. “The Gorge has some of the best physicians and surgeons in the country,” says Julie Stephens, manager of Providence Health & Services clinics in the Gorge. “We are thrilled to welcome these cardiologists and expand services based on the needs of our community.”
Cardiovascular Conditioning Center
Upon entering Providence Hood River Cardiovascular Conditioning Center, you’ll notice the striking similarity to a fitness club. Treadmills, exercise bikes and, on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, lots of people working out.
But the people here haven’t come to the center to sign up for a workout program. Their first visit came after a trip to their physician’s office, an emergency room or a hospital stay. They’ve been diagnosed with heart disease, or had a heart related event. After receiving physician referral, the patient will enter the three-phase Cardiac Rehabilitation Program.
Phase I consists of counseling and education. Though exercise is not included, this can be one of the most difficult aspects of recovery. As Laney Gale, R.N., at Providence Hood River cardiac rehab points out, many of the risk factors for heart disease, including high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, obesity, inactivity and diabetes, are controllable through exercise and diet. By making simple lifestyle changes, a patient can decrease the chance of future heart problems.
Phase II takes place in the cardiac rehab center and is covered by insurance. The participant puts the exercise equipment to use and will have heart rate, blood pressure and other medical issues monitored during the workout. Phase II also provides educational classes where patients learn about heart disease and ways to control the risk factors and a unique opportunity for cardiac patients to meet each other and share advice and experiences.
Phase III is optional and not covered by insurance. It is a health maintenance program where participants can continue to use the center’s facilities for a small daily use fee.
Studies show that people with heart disease who regularly participate in supervised cardiac rehabilitation programs end up healthier than those who don't. Participants in Providence Hood River’s cardiac rehabilitation have said the program helped them feel better, have more confidence, get much-needed emotional support, rebuild strength and stamina, learn to work within their limits and get back to enjoying life.
See more about the Cardiovascular Conditioning Center
Free Blood Pressure Checks
Providence Hood River offers free blood pressure screenings every Tuesday from 9:00 a.m. to noon just off the hospital’s main lobby. This walk-in clinic is staffed by trained volunteers and organized through the hospital’s volunteer services department. “It’s a wonderful way to help our community stay healthy,” says Diana Harlan, volunteer director. “Our volunteers put their hearts into this work knowing the difference they are making.”
Also see: Warning Signs from the American Heart Association |
