Augusta, Ga. (November 28, 2023) – Piedmont Augusta has received certification of its cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). This certification is recognition of Piedmont Augusta’s commitment to improving the quality of life of patients by enhancing standards of care.
AACVPR is a multidisciplinary professional association comprised of health professionals who serve in the field of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Members include cardiovascular and pulmonary physicians, nurses, exercise physiologists, physical therapists, behavioral scientists, respiratory therapists, dietitians and nutritionists. AACVPR program certification is the only peer-reviewed accreditation process designed to review individual facilities for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by the AACVPR and other professional societies.
“I could not be more proud of this team for their dedication to quality, safety and service in the care of all our cardiac and pulmonary rehab patients,” said Piedmont Augusta CEO Lily Henson, M.D. “Cardiac and pulmonary events often affect the patient physically, mentally and emotionally. It takes a team effort and an educated, empathetic approach to ensure they have the tools they need to enjoy life going forward.”
Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks and coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and pulmonary problems such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory symptoms, recover faster and live healthier. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families.
To earn accreditation, Piedmont Augusta’s cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. AACVPR program certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other related professional societies. Each program’s application is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee, and certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors.
In 2018, AACVPR moved to an outcomes-based process with performance measurements that represent more meaningful outcomes. Therefore, AACVPR-certified programs are leaders in the cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation field because they offer the most advanced practices available and have proven track records of high-quality patient care. AACVPR program certification is valid for three years.