Pulmonary Rehabilitation

No, you do not require a referral to access our pulmonary rehabilitation program. We welcome individuals looking to improve their lung health, and we will work directly with you to create a personalised program. However, we strongly recommend discussing your participation in our program with your GP or respiratory specialist, especially if you’ve recently experienced an acute exacerbation or infection, been hospitalised, or had surgery. We will collaborate closely with your healthcare team to ensure you receive the best possible care.

The duration of our pulmonary rehabilitation program can vary depending on your specific condition and progress. Generally, it last between 6 to 12 weeks, with the program involving exercising three times a week. One of these sessions each week will be with us, which can be carried out in your home or via telehealth, or a combination of both, throughout the program. During these sessions, we review your progress, make necessary adjustments to your program, and provide essential education components. The frequency and format of sessions are tailored precisely to align with your goals, condition, and symptoms, ensuring you achieve the best possible outcomes.

The exercises and activities in your pulmonary rehabilitation program will be tailored to your specific condition and fitness level. These may encompass aerobic exercises like walking and cycling, strength training using weights or resistance bands, and stretches to improve your flexibility. We ensure that the program is safe, gradual, and aligned with your goals, condition, and symptoms.

The optimal timing to begin pulmonary rehabilitation after an acute exacerbation or chest infection can vary depending on your individual situation. We often recommend starting as soon as you feel well enough, ideally within days or weeks after you’ve recovered, as early initiation can lead to improved outcomes, enhanced exercise tolerance, and better quality of life. However, the exact timing should be discussed with your GP and/or respiratory specialist, who can provide recommendations based on factors such as the severity of the recent episode, your overall health, and individual needs. We will collaborate closely with your healthcare team to ensure you receive the best possible care.

Pulmonary rehabilitation is generally safe and well tolerated. However, as with any physical activity, there are considerations. We will assess your medical history, condition, and any specific limitations you might have. During the program, you might experience breathlessness, temporary fatigue or mild discomfort as your body adjusts to the exercises. We will closely monitor your progress to ensure that the program is tailored to your abilities and limitations.