Pulmonary Rehab: A Path to Better Breathing and Renewed Confidence

Pulmonary rehabilitation can transform the way you live, offering renewed independence and improved lung function for those managing chronic respiratory conditions. At Daviess Community Hospital (DCH), our Pulmonary Rehab program is designed to help patients reclaim their quality of life and regain confidence in their daily activities.

What Is Pulmonary Rehabilitation?

Pulmonary Rehab is a medically supervised program for individuals living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, emphysema, interstitial lung disease, or other conditions causing persistent breathing difficulties. By combining structured exercise, nutritional counseling, stress management, and ongoing monitoring, Pulmonary Rehab aims to:

1. Improve lung function
2. Boost endurance and mobility
3. Enhance overall physical and emotional well-being

Our program at DCH provides the personalized care and support you need to make significant gains in managing your condition.

Why Pulmonary Rehab Matters

Shortness of breath often prevents people with lung conditions from enjoying day-to-day activities. Pulmonary Rehab addresses this challenge head-on by teaching specialized exercises to strengthen the respiratory system, while also offering tips on nutrition and stress reduction. With a focus on evidence-based practices, participants often experience:

• Reduced shortness of breath during routine tasks
• Greater endurance for walking, climbing stairs, or household chores
• Better understanding of how to manage symptoms and stay active

Meet Michelle Arney

At Daviess Community Hospital, Pulmonary Rehab is guided by our skilled respiratory therapist Michelle Arney, CRT. She brings decades of experience to each session, ensuring that every patient feels supported and confident while progressing through the program.

What to Expect

Our comprehensive Pulmonary Rehab program spans 18 weeks, with two 1-hour sessions per week. During each session, you can expect:

• Supervised Exercise: Personalized workouts that build cardiovascular strength and improve lung function.
• Nutritional Guidance: Practical tips to help you make healthy food choices that support your respiratory health.
• Stress Management: Techniques and resources to address anxiety or depression that may accompany chronic conditions.
• Continuous Monitoring: Our staff closely evaluates your progress, ensuring safe and effective improvement over time.
• Re-evaluation: At the end of the program, you will undergo a final assessment to measure your achievements and plan your next steps.

Following completion, you’ll receive a maintenance exercise plan to continue healthy habits independently. We also stay connected with your physician to keep them informed of your progress.

How to Enroll

1. Obtain a Referral: Talk to your primary care provider or specialist about your symptoms. If they believe Pulmonary Rehab will benefit you, they can refer you directly to our program.
2. Contact Our Team: Call (812) 254-8895 to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.
3. Insurance Coverage: Pulmonary Rehab is covered by most insurance companies, but it’s always a good idea to confirm your plan’s specific benefits. DCH staff can help verify coverage and address any concerns you may have.

Learn More

If you believe Pulmonary Rehab could help you or a loved one, visit our Cardiopulmonary Services page for further details. Our goal is to empower you to breathe easier, stay active, and enjoy life’s daily moments without being held back by respiratory limitations.

Pulmonary rehabilitation at Daviess Community Hospital is more than just an exercise program; it’s a journey toward renewed independence and well-being. By combining expert medical supervision, personalized education, and compassionate support, our team works every day to help patients take positive steps toward managing their respiratory conditions. Contact us today to learn how we can help you breathe easier and live better.