Kinston, NC – The UNC Lenoir Health Care is proud to announce the certification of it Cardiac Rehab program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). UNC Lenoir was recognized for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care. 

Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems (e.g., heart attacks, coronary artery bypass graft surgery) and pulmonary problems (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD], respiratory symptoms,) recover faster and improve their quality of life. Both programs include exercise, education, counseling, and support for patients and their families. 

The UNC Lenoir Cardiac  rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by AACVPR and other professional societies. Each program is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee and Certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors. 

AACVPR-certified programs are recognized as leaders in the field of cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation because they offer the most advanced practices available. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years. 

UNC Lenoir Health Care Cardiac Rehab certification is  the only peer-reviewed cardio-pulmonary rehab accreditation process designed to review individual facilities for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by the AACVPR and other professional societies. This 3 year certification is strenuous (to say  the least) to obtain and maintain UNC Lenoir has been accredited for at least 3  back-to back cycles. The UNC Lenoir Cardiac Rehab team includes Brittney Bradshaw, Lisa Alphin, Donna Potter, Sonia Joyner, Katie Bullock, RD, Dr. Greg Gridley, Dr. Alan Kirollos, and Katie Jones.

About AACVPR

Founded in 1985, the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to the mission of reducing morbidity, mortality and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management. Central to the core mission is improvement in quality of life for patients and their families.