Following a cardiovascular event, such as a heart attack, heart surgery, or after a diagnosis of heart disease, your physician will likely recommend that you participate in a cardiac rehabilitation program.
The certified CMH Cardiac Rehabilitation Program includes monitored exercise, nutritional and lifestyle education, and support. As a “cardiac rehab” participant, your exercise plan is customized to your needs under the direct guidance of a physician, specialized nurse, and exercise physiologists. The goal of cardiac rehabilitation is to help you return to the best possible physical condition, feel stronger, increase your energy, and decrease your risk for future cardiovascular problems.
Cardiac rehabilitation consists of three phases. Phase I cardiac rehabilitation occurs in an inpatient setting. At Columbia Memorial Hospital (CMH) we provide Phase II and Phase III cardiac rehabilitation, after discharge from the hospital. Our gym is fully equipped with a wide variety of cardio and strength-training equipment and you will have the help and guidance of our exercise physiologists.
Many people worry about exercising after a cardiac event; however exercise is a vital piece of your recovery. At CMH Cardiac Rehabilitation your heart will be continuously monitored for any signs of distress or dysfunction and all of our caregivers are trained and certified in Advanced Cardiac Life Support. This is the safest way to get your heart back in shape.
The CMH Cardiac Rehabilitation program is medically supervised by clinical exercise physiologists and registered nurses. Together with your physician, they will guide you through exercises that are appropriate for your stage of recovery and level that is safe for your particular heart condition. Physician medical direction is provided by the CMH/OHSU Cardiology Clinic.
Phase II Cardiac Rehab click to open
Phase II cardiac rehabilitation focuses on individualized exercise programs, exercise progression, goal setting and tracking, healthy lifestyle, and behavior change education. The Phase II program requires a physician referral and is generally covered by medical insurance.
You qualify for Phase II if you are recovering from:
Your exercise specialists and cardiac nurse will work with you to develop a customized exercise regimen and treatment plan. Exercise is medically supervised by skilled exercise physiologists that specialize in cardiac care. Phase II patients are continuously monitored during every session with state-of-the-art ECG telemetry. Exercise sessions typically last 1 to 1-1/2 hours and are done three times a week for 12 weeks.
Healthy lifestyle and behavior changes go hand-in-hand with exercise and is actively promoted throughout this phase of your cardiac rehabilitation program. Your care team will provide guidance and information about a balanced nutrition plan that can help you lose weight and make healthier food choices. Topics include:
Adjusting and recovering from a serious cardiac health issue does take time and support. Throughout your cardiac rehabilitation experience, you will receive vital support from others with similar health experiences, as well as encouragement from CMH caregivers. Emotional support is an essential component in successfully managing your cardiovascular disease. Cardiac rehab can help you rebuild your life physically, mentally and emotionally.
Phase III Cardiac Rehab click to open
Phase III cardiac rehab is a self-pay, independent exercise program that is medically supervised by the cardiac rehab team. The Phase III program focuses on individualized exercise programs and goal setting. Patients who qualify for Phase III include anyone diagnosed with cardiovascular risk factors including but not limited to hypertension (high blood pressure) and hypercholesterolemia (high cholesterol). Participants who complete Phase II are encouraged to continue with the Phase III program.
Getting Started click to open
A physician referral is required for admission to the cardiac rehab program. Please contact your primary care physician or cardiologist for a referral. Please call 503-338-4052 with any questions about participation or the referral process.
On the first floor of the Professional Office Building 1, this is accessed through the west lobby of Columbia Memorial Hospital
2055 Exchange St., Suite 170
Astoria, OR 97103
503-338-4052 (phone)
503-338-4053 (fax)
Open for Phase 2 patients: Monday-Thursday, 7:30 am to 4pm
We are not currently able to serve Phase 3 patients
Copyright © Columbia Memorial Hospital