Cardiac Rehabilitation

Cardiac rehabilitation is offered to patients and their families following a heart attack, heart surgery or coronary angioplasty/stents.

We offer a locally based service in Dorchester, Weymouth, Bridport and Blandford.

Phase 1 - Inpatients are given information by ward staff prior to discharge and will be contacted by the rehab team soon after to offer further advice and support.

Phase 2 - a 30-minute clinic appointment is made to monitor recovery and answer further questions. We will also enrol you onto an exercise and education programme if appropriate.

Phase 3 - a 9-week programme offered 1-2 times a week in the local area.

Contact: Elaine Tovell on 01305 255707 or email elaine.tovell@dchft.nhs.uk

What to expect when you come
The exercise and education programme is run by a cardiac rehab trained exercise instructor and a specialist nurse. The programme is tailored to the needs of heart patients who can exercise in a safe and friendly environment and receive further encouragement and advice.
The talks cover risk factors, exercise, medication, diet etc and are given by appropriate professionals.

How long does it take?
The 9-week programme runs 1 or 2 times a week. The main sessions last about 2.5 hours and include a blood pressure check, a 60-minute exercise session and a 60-minute talk. If a second session is offered, the exercise will be followed by a relaxation session.

General information
If you have recently had a heart attack, heart surgery or coronary angioplasty and have not been seen by a member of the cardiac rehabilitation team and would like further information and advice, please contact the team on 01305 255707.

If you are awaiting cardiac surgery and would like further information and advice please contact Shaun Porter on 01305 255417.

Once you have completed Phase 3 you will be offered a referral to a Phase 4 exercise group which are also locally based and run by trained exercise specialists so that you can continue your improved health benefits.