Fisher-Titus certified to help breathing

Medical center earns pulmonary rehabilitation certification

Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk recently earned certification of its pulmonary rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, according to a news release.

Fisher-Titus was recognized for commitment to improving quality of life by promoting standards of care.

The pulmonary rehabilitation program has been certified through American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation since 2015.

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with pulmonary diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and pulmonary fibrosis breathe better and improve their quality of life.

The program includes exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families, the release said.

The Fisher-Titus Medical Center Pulmonary Rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices.

The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by the association and other professional societies.

Each application is reviewed by the association’s Program Certification Committee and the association’s Board of Directors to ensure that “Best Practices” are being met, according to the release.

The Fisher-Titus pulmonary rehabilitation program saw its first patient in April 2013, and continues to grow to support the community, the release said.

Pulmonary rehabilitation at Fisher-Titus is a 12-week program, followed by an optional maintenance component. A physician referral is required to enter the program.

“The program’s crucial goal is to improve the quality of life for those living with chronic lung disease,” said Michele Hale, registered respiratory therapist. “This is accomplished through individualized strength and endurance training, and by providing participants with the skills to manage their symptoms.”

“The program’s crucial goal is to improve the quality of life for those living with chronic lung disease. This is accomplished through individualized strength and endurance training, and by providing participants with the skills to manage their symptoms.”

— Michele Hale, registered respiratory therapist