Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program

Programs
• Ventilator Weaning
• Wound Management
• Medically Complex
• Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation

“I came the first week to make my family happy. I came back the second week because I met another nice lady that I could talk to. The third week, I realized that I could walk from my car to the front door of the clinic without getting short of breath. Can you imagine how good I'm going to feel in six more weeks?”

Those who suffer from lung diseases such as emphysema, asthma, COPD, and chronic bronchitis work hard to breathe and struggle to enjoy simple day-to-day pleasures like walking, shopping, or conversing. Many avoid physical activity because even mild exertion can lead to shortness of breath. RML's Outpatient Pulmonary Rehabilitation program helps non-ventilator-dependent patients control their symptoms and complications to become more independent and productive.

Under the direction of a board certified pulmonologist, the program brings together the expertise of respiratory, physical and occupational therapists, nutritionists, and licensed social workers. The team thoroughly evaluates a patient and develops an individualized rehabilitation plan that matches his or her strength and abilities. Over the course of 10 weeks, patients and therapists meet three days a week in four-hour sessions. Combining therapy and education, RML's pioneering program focuses on exercise conditioning, strength training, and breathing retraining. Our facility is fully outfitted with the latest in physical exercise equipment and rehabilitation stations that help patients increase endurance and breathe easier — no matter what their level of strength.

Patients receive important information on the use of their oxygen equipment and the purposes of their prescribed medications. In addition, participants learn techniques for accomplishing ordinary tasks such as taking clothes off hangers, washing dishes, or getting out of bed — so they can manage day-to-day activities more comfortably.

RML's outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program is the only one of its kind in the Chicagoland area and provides patients with practical tools and the emotional support they need to improve their ability to cope with their conditions.