Recovery Is More Than Just Rest

When someone survives a heart attack or undergoes heart surgery, the relief is overwhelming. But recovery doesn’t end when the patient leaves the hospital—it only begins. The truth is, without structured guidance, many patients remain at risk for another heart event, lingering weakness, or emotional struggles.

This is where cardiac rehabilitation steps in. It is not just an “extra” service—it is an evidence-based, doctor-recommended program proven to save lives. According to the American Heart Association, patients who complete cardiac rehabilitation reduce their risk of dying from heart disease by up to 43% and all-cause mortality by 33%.¹

At Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center (CGHMC), our Cardiac Rehabilitation Program helps patients not just survive—but thrive, with the strength, knowledge, and confidence to live fully again.

What Exactly Is Cardiac Rehabilitation?

Cardiac rehabilitation (or “cardiac rehab”) is a personalized, multi-phase program designed for patients recovering from heart-related conditions. It brings together exercise, lifestyle changes, and emotional support—all under medical supervision.

The Three Core Components:

1. Supervised Exercise Training – Improves cardiovascular strength safely.
2. Lifestyle and Nutrition Guidance – Helps patients adopt heart-healthy habits.
3. Psychological & Social Support – Addresses anxiety, depression, and fear of recurrence.

Unlike generic fitness programs, cardiac rehab is medically structured and tailored to each patient’s condition and pace of recovery.

Why Cardiac Rehab Is Essential for Recovery

1. It Prevents Future Heart Problems
   A heart attack or surgery is a warning sign. Without changes, recurrence is likely. Cardiac rehab equips patients with tools to control blood pressure, cholesterol, weight, and diabetes, slashing the risk of another event.
2. It Restores Strength Safely
   Many patients fear exercise after a cardiac event. In rehab, activities like walking, cycling, and light strength training are supervised by specialists, ensuring the heart strengthens without undue strain.
3. It Heals the Mind, Not Just the Body
   Heart disease often leaves emotional scars—fear of exertion, depression, or anxiety. Rehab provides counseling, peer support, and coping strategies so patients rebuild confidence, not just stamina.
4. It Improves Everyday Living
   Patients in rehab often report:
   • Higher energy levels
   • Better sleep quality
   • More enjoyment of daily activities
   • A renewed sense of independence
5. It Saves Lives and Money
   By preventing repeat hospitalizations and complications, cardiac rehab is both life-saving and cost-effective. For families, this means peace of mind as well as financial relief.

Who Should Undergo Cardiac Rehab?

Cardiac rehab is recommended for people who have experienced or undergone:

• Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
• Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery
• Angioplasty or stent placement
• Heart valve repair or replacement
• Heart failure management
• Coronary artery disease (CAD)
• Heart transplant

If you or a loved one fits into any of these categories, cardiac rehab can significantly improve both survival and quality of life.

What Happens in a Cardiac Rehab Program?

1. Initial Evaluation
   Doctors and therapists assess medical history, current condition, and fitness level.
2. Exercise Training
   Safe, tailored workouts (treadmill walking, cycling, resistance training) with continuous monitoring.
3. Nutrition & Lifestyle Counseling
   Heart-healthy diets, weight control, stress reduction, and smoking cessation.
4. Education Workshops
   Practical tips for managing medications, recognizing warning signs, and preventing relapse.
5. Emotional Support
   Therapy sessions and peer groups to help patients overcome fear and isolation.

Why Patients Skip Rehab—And Why That’s Risky

Some patients never begin or drop out early, saying:

• “I already feel fine.”
• “I don’t have time.”
• “I’m afraid exercise will strain my heart.”

The truth: skipping rehab doubles the risk of another heart event. With flexible scheduling, safe supervision, and financial coverage options, excuses should never outweigh health.

CGHMC’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Advantage

At CGHMC, we combine world-class medical expertise with compassionate care. Our program includes:

• State-of-the-art monitoring technology for safe exercise.
• Multi-disciplinary teams—cardiologists, physiotherapists, nutritionists, and mental health experts.
• Family-focused care, guiding not just patients but their loved ones.
• Proven outcomes, with patients reporting faster recovery and stronger long-term heart health.

We believe recovery is not just about fixing the heart—it’s about rebuilding a whole life.

The Lifelong Value of Cardiac Rehabilitation

Completing cardiac rehab is more than ticking off a medical requirement—it’s an investment in the future. Patients leave with:

• Confidence to live without constant fear.
• Tools to stay active, manage stress, and eat well.
• Stronger connections with family and community.

In essence, rehab ensures patients don’t just add years to life—but add life to years.

Stronger Hearts, Brighter Futures

Cardiac rehabilitation is not optional—it is critical to full recovery. It strengthens the body, restores peace of mind, and equips patients for a healthier future.

At Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center, our Cardiac Rehab Program blends advanced medicine with compassionate guidance, ensuring every patient has the best chance to return to the life they love.

 Your heart deserves more than survival. It deserves renewal.  Take the next step. Consult with CGHMC’s cardiac rehabilitation team today and start your journey to lifelong heart health. Contact the Cardiac Rehabilitation Unit at (02) 8711-4141 local 543 to schedule an appointment.

Reference: Rouleau C et. al. Journal of the American Heart Association, Volume 13, Number 10 https://doi.org/10.1161/JAHA.123.03356