Many people with chronic lung diseases slowly lose the ability to function normally. Shortness of breath, wheezing, coughing, fatigue and sometimes panic attacks interfere with everyday tasks such as walking, performing household chores, climbing stairs and even taking a shower.

As a result, patients may experience:

  • Limitations in physical activity
  • Impaired performance at work
  • Dependence on others for help with daily activities
  • Anxiety or depression
  • Frequent visits to doctors’ offices and the emergency room, as well as hospital stays
  • Other medical problems associated with chronic lung disease

Our comprehensive outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program is designed to help patients get healthier, improve their quality of life and decrease the possibility of future hospitalizations through a structured program of exercise and education. Under the direction of a pulmonologist or physiatrist, respiratory therapists and other members of our pulmonary team customize an exercise plan for each patient based on his or her test results, individual circumstances and goals. Program participants meet for one- to two-hour sessions, two to three times per week. The number of weeks varies, depending on the patient’s needs and goals. Upon completion of the program, we provide patients with additional recommendations to assist them in achieving their goals.

Education is also an important part of our Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program. Patients are taught more about their lung disorders, including:

  • How to use medications most effectively
  • Ways to conserve energy, reduce fatigue and retrain breathing
  • Prevention and management of infection
  • Proper nutrition
  • Importance of exercise
  • Environmental factors that affect breathing 
  • Oxygen equipment and traveling tips
  • Stress management

Maintenance Exercise Program

After completing the Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program, patients have the opportunity to enroll in a self-pay maintenance program. This program provides patients with access to the exercise facilities at Main Line Health Pulmonary Diagnostic & Wellness Centers, to help them maintain or improve their fitness levels.

Program Referral and Insurance

Although most patients are referred to our program by a physician, patients can still contact us directly. A physician’s prescription for pulmonary rehabilitation is required to participate. Most insurance plans cover a significant portion, if not all of the cost. Upon referral, we will verify patient eligibility for insurance coverage and any copayments that may apply.