Everyday activities can be overwhelming for persons with emphysema, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or any other chronic respiratory condition. If you have been diagnosed with a respiratory ailment, you know all too well that breathing can be an exhausting struggle robbing you of life’s pleasures.

St. Francis offers pulmonary rehabilitation services at the Beech Grove campus. The programs are individualized and closely monitored by health care professionals who help you develop skills to manage your condition and restore quality of life.

Personalized programs: You will need a referral from your doctor. Our team of pulmonary rehabilitation specialists will work with your physician to develop a specific program just for you.

The exercise portion of your program is based on your condition and ability. You will be assessed for strength, flexibility and endurance. You will be guided through exercises designed to improve your endurance, strength, stamina, flexibility and self-confidence.

In addition, you will learn breathing techniques, find answers to your questions about prescribed medications, receive nutritional information and learn how to get the most out of life by conserving your energy and pacing yourself.

We teach relaxation and breathing methods to aid you in controlling shortness of breath and anxiety.

Program details: Patients participate in our formal rehabilitation service for an average of six to 10 weeks. Extensions are possible if medically necessary. Patients usually attend sessions three times a week.

We bill Medicare and private insurance for the formal rehabilitation part of the program, but patients are encouraged to contact their provider before making any appointments.  

After you finish the formal program, you can participate in our maintenance program on Tuesdays and Thursdays. That fee is paid monthly and is not billable to insurance. With an open gym schedule, you can choose times to exercise that fit your lifestyle. Exercise with supervision in our exercise room, and enjoy the freedom to work at your own pace, alongside others who are learning to cope with similar breathing conditions.

The Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation program at St. Francis Hospital & Health Centers recently received recertification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR).

For more information, contact Beverly G. Smith, RRT/CPFT, Coordinator for Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services.

Office: (317) 782-6579

Fax: (317) 782-6524