Cardiac care at LRH
You may be surprised to learn about the range of cardiac services offered at LRH, from angiograms and diagnostic tests to stent procedures. We’re working on building the capacity of our cardiology team so you won’t have to travel to Melbourne for care.
LRH also provides rehabilitation programs for people recovering from a cardiac event or managing heart failure.
Where can I find simple information about heart conditions?
There’s a lot of good info out there but sometimes it’s just too hard to understand. A trusted source is the Heart Foundation website where you will find all the facts and figures about heart conditions, recovery and staying well.
Click on this link for information about your heart, heart conditions, heart disease, heart health basics, medical tests and Aboriginal health
Cardiac Rehabilitation Program
There’s more to recovery after a heart attack or heart condition than simply feeling well enough to go home from hospital. Your body has experienced a challenging event so you’ve got to help it get back in shape.
Cardiac rehabilitation has been demonstrated to improve your quality of life. It is a five week program of education and exercise at LRH where you will be supported by a nurse and our allied health team to strengthen your heart and make a few changes to your lifestyle.
How do I join?
You can refer yourself to the program or get your GP to refer you. Referrals can be made by calling LRH’s Allied Health Department (03) 5173 8383 or email cardiac.rehab@lrh.com.au
A team member will contact you and book you in for an initial assessment. This takes about 30 minutes with a cardiac nurse and 30 minutes with a physiotherapist.
Rehab sessions are on Monday and Thursday. There are two time-slots to choose from on each of those days, 1pm-3pm or 2pm-4pm.
Each session comprises an hour of education and an hour of exercise. You’ll complete 10 sessions over five weeks.
SmartCR app
Using the SmartCR app will help you:
- complete your cardiac rehabilitation with fewer visits to the hospital
- exercise at home
- record and keep track of your medications
- learn about heart health and your recovery with videos and online articles.
- manage stress and guided relaxation audio.
Ask our rehab team whether it’s the right option for you.
Evening group rehab
We run a shorter version of the rehab program for eight participants, if there is enough demand. This is usually on a Wednesday evening from 6pm-8.30pm. This is a great alternative for people who work during the day. Please phone or email the rehab team to find out whether this option is available.
1:1 sessions
Group sessions just don’t work for some people, particularly if they have physical or mental health challenges. Contact the rehab team to find out how we may be able to help you with your cardiac rehabilitation.
