GRMC Launches Pulmonary Rehab Service

Grinnell Regional Medical Center has added a comprehensive pulmonary rehabilitation program to its growing list of on-site patient care services. 

Pulmonary rehab assists individuals with chronic lung diseases like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema, asthma, and chronic bronchitis.

GRMC Nurse Manager Beth Kirton, who oversees the new program, says that individuals with chronic lung disease “can be very restricted in how they lead their daily lives. Our goal is to help patients function at their highest capacity through strength training and exercise, breathing training and medical management, nutrition education, and emotional support.

“The outpatient rehab program also encourages self-management, to decrease symptoms and complications, and ideally, reduce hospitalizations.” 

Admission to the new pulmonary rehabilitation program requires that patients have a medical diagnosis of a chronic respiratory condition, have pulmonary function testing within the past 12 months that indicates less than 60 percent capacity, and/or have symptoms that inhibit daily life activities.

“Each individual’s treatment plan will be designed to meet their needs,” Kirton said. “New patients will be enrolled in the program following pulmonary function testing and physician referral. This is a convenient resource within our community to help patients lead full, satisfying lives.”

Respiratory Therapist Tisha Miller will coordinate patient care, with support from Medical Director Ron Collins, M.D. Individuals should first contact their primary care provider before seeking services from the new GRMC program.

The pulmonary rehabilitation program is located on the first floor of the Ahrens Medical Arts Building, 210 4^th Ave., and is open Mondays and Wednesdays, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Pulmonary function testing will be scheduled on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

For more information, call 641-236-2411.