UHS Chenango Memorial Hospital and the YMCA, stronger together

UHS Chenango Memorial marks a years-long partnership between the hospital’s new cardiac rehab suite and the Norwich YMCA, a partnership that is mutually beneficial for both facilities and vastly improves patient’s chances of recovery after heart traumas.

According to Registered Nurse Joel Cummings, “The UHS Cardiac Rehab program is a controlled exercise program tailored for those individuals that have reached the stage for rehab and exercise after a heart or cardiac event.  The exercise takes place in the cardiac rehab facility and is always monitored by a certified Nurse due to continued stress on the heart.”

UHS offers the first two stages of rehab exercise, after which, patients are cleared to participate in regular unmonitored exercise, that’s where the Norwich YMCA comes in. According to the YMCA’s Executive Director Jamie Mullin, “Cardiac rehab patients that have graduated from the CMH program can transition to the YMCA facility to continue their health and wellness journey.”

The YMCA houses similar approved equipment for cardiac rehab exercise, such as trained staff, three AEDs in the facility, and close proximity to urgent care from the local fire department and hospital. As Mullin says, “It is exciting to see the patients successfully graduate from the UHS Chenango Memorial hospital cardiac rehabilitation program and return to heart healthy activities on their own in the community and especially at the YMCA.”

Though these stages of rehabilitation exercise are not required, they are highly recommended by the Cardiac Facility’s doctors, since those who complete the recommended exercise after a cardiac event have a higher recovery rate. According to Cummings, “Cardiac rehabilitation is an important service offered here at UHS Chenango memorial Hospital because it offers those that have had heart issues a chance to get back to a normal lifestyle.”

This partnership between UHS Chenango Memorial and the Norwich YMCA is a shining example of the good work two such beneficial organizations can do for their community when they come together. This collaboration is sure to bring many healthy options to residents and patients in Chenango County. For more information about Cardiac Rehab or the Norwich YMCA, please visit nyuhs.org.

PHOTO: Trey Muserallo, Exercise Physiologist works with patients in the Hospitals Cardiac Rehab Exercise room