Alan Mead, M.D. Vice President | Lake Regional Health System
Alan Mead, M.D. Vice President | Lake Regional Health System
Lake Regional Health System is set to observe National Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week from March 9-15, joining healthcare organizations nationwide in the effort. The initiative aims to assist individuals with chronic lung diseases in improving their breathing and overall quality of life.
Jody Corpe, E.P., M.S., manager of Lake Regional Cardiopulmonary Rehab, emphasized the importance of patient progress: “We love seeing our pulmonary rehab patients set goals, work hard and meet those goals. Most of all, we love hearing how they are getting back to activities they love.”
Pulmonary rehabilitation supports patients with conditions such as COPD, asthma, bronchitis, emphysema, pulmonary fibrosis, interstitial lung disease, among others. Benefits include reduced respiratory symptoms, fewer hospitalizations, increased muscle strength and endurance.
The program involves a team approach:
- Physicians evaluate and prescribe rehab plans.
- Exercise physiologists create exercise routines focusing on breathing retraining.
- Registered nurses monitor sessions.
- Dietitians educate on healthy eating.
- Support for smoking cessation is also provided.
Fellow patients contribute by offering camaraderie which can alleviate anxiety and depression associated with chronic illness.
Jordan Becker and Christina Jackson lead classes at Lake Regional’s Eldon location. After completing the program, patients can join a maintenance program or participate in the Better Breathers support group held monthly at Lake Regional Hospital.
Lake Regional’s cardiopulmonary program is certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. Services are available at multiple locations including Osage Beach, Eldon, and Laurie.
Patients have shared positive experiences. Ernie Schaffer noted: “The staff has been a godsend.” Audrey Schaffer was inspired to complete a 5K run despite needing oxygen during exertion. Gean McNabb described it as “the best thing I have ever done for myself.” Other testimonials highlighted improved health outcomes and supportive community within the program.
For more information about Lake Regional's pulmonary rehabilitation services, interested parties can call 573-302-2280 or visit lakeregional.com/LungCare.
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