Arkansas Heart Hospital is launching the state’s first post-COVID pulmonary rehabilitation program. The comprehensive outpatient treatment, offered through Strong Hearts Rehabilitation Center, will serve qualifying individuals experiencing symptoms for at least four weeks. It will be one of five medical facilities in the U.S. to offer services the special rehabilitation services.
According to studies, half of those infected by COVID-19 experience lingering health conditions, such as coughs, difficulty breathing or heart palpations.
“For many Arkansans, the negative effects of COVID-19 extend well beyond the initial infection phase,” said Dr. Bruce Murphy, CEO of AHH. “This unprecedented outpatient program will help those still impacted by the virus return to and enjoy everyday life.”
Arkansas Heart Hospital will offer the post-COVID pulmonary rehab program at its flagship Little Rock campus, Encore Medical Center in Saline County and community clinics in Conway and Russellville. Qualifying patients will undergo a full health assessment prior to receiving services, then visit their designated clinics for three days per week for 12 weeks. Patients will receive myriad services from AHH’s in-house team to help mitigate and control their symptoms, such as monitored one-on-one or group exercise regimens, breathing re-trainings and more. AHH will also refer individuals for additional specialty services, as needed.
AHH was recently named one of the World’s Best Specialized Hospitals by Newsweek, for the fourth consecutive year. Newsweek awarded the 2022 designation to AHH for its cardiology and cardiac surgery.
Medicare and select private health insurance companies will cover the services for qualifying individuals. Those interested in scheduling an appointment may call 501-978-3780 or email stronghearts@arheart.com. Arkansas Heart Hospital currently operates two hospitals and community clinics across the state.