Rehabilitation after a cardiac event is about more than healing. It’s about helping patients build healthier habits that can improve their quality of life for years to come. That’s why we’re excited to offer the Pritikin Intensive Cardiac Rehab (ICR) program at HSHS hospitals throughout Illinois, including at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital in O’Fallon.
Unlike traditional cardiac rehab programs that focus mainly on exercise, the Pritikin program takes a whole-person approach to recovery.
The program is built around three key pillars: safe exercise to help you regain strength, heart-healthy nutrition through weekly cooking schools and a healthy mind-set to ensure mental resilience.
The Pritikin ICR program is designed for patients recovering from a variety of cardiac events and procedures, including heart attacks, heart surgery, stent placement and heart failure. Many patients begin the program feeling uncertain about what activities are safe or how to make lasting lifestyle changes. Through education, supervised care and ongoing encouragement, the program helps patients better understand their condition and feel more confident as they return to everyday life.
One of the greatest benefits of the Pritikin program is the support you receive along the way. Recovery can be challenging, but at HSHS our cardiac rehab teams work with you, side by side, helping you stay encouraged, accountable and focused on your goals.
Each exercise session is tailored specifically to your needs and abilities, helping you safely rebuild strength under the guidance of a cardiac rehab team member. You’ll also work with registered dietitians who provide practical nutrition education, cooking demonstrations and tips for preparing meals that are both heart healthy and enjoyable. The final and most crucial part of the program focuses on emotional wellness and stress management because your mental health plays an important role in heart recovery. You’ll learn strategies to help manage stress, stay motivated and maintain healthy habits long after the program ends.
The Pritikin ICR program is covered by Medicare and most major insurance providers, though patients should confirm coverage with their individual plan. A referral from your primary care provider or cardiologist is needed to start the program.
Heart recovery is about more than healing from a cardiac event. It’s about helping you move forward with the tools, confidence and support to live a healthier life.
For more information about the Pritikin ICR program you can call the cardiac rehab team at St. Elizabeth’s Hospital at 618-234-2120, ext. 12947.
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