Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services
Southern West Virginia Health System offers a comprehensive Pulmonary Rehabilitation program designed to help individuals with chronic respiratory conditions achieve improved function, greater independence, and a higher quality of life.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation services may qualify for sliding fee discounts based on income eligibility.
Program Overview
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a clinically supervised program that integrates exercise therapy, patient education, and ongoing support. It is intended to reduce symptoms, improve physical conditioning, and equip patients with the tools needed to effectively manage chronic lung disease.
Since its establishment in 2016, our program, supported through philanthropic partnerships from The Dorney Koppel Family Charitable Foundation and the Claude Worthington Benedum Foundation, has served patients across the region with a consistent focus on evidence-based care and measurable outcomes.
Conditions We Treat
This program is appropriate for individuals diagnosed with chronic respiratory conditions, including:
- Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
- Emphysema
- Chronic bronchitis
- Asthma
- Black lung disease
- Other chronic conditions that result in shortness of breath or reduced lung function
Program Structure
The Pulmonary Rehabilitation program is conducted over a structured 12-week period and is tailored to each patient's clinical needs and functional goals.
Each patient recieved:
- Comprehensive Evaluation: A detailed assessment, including medical history, physical examination, and diagnostic testing to establish baseline respiratory function.
- Individualized Care Plan: Personalized goals and interventions, continuously monitored and adjusted by clinical staff.
- Supervised Exercise Therapy: Low impact, medically supervised exercise designed to improve cardiovascular endurance, muscle strength, and breathing efficiency.
- Education and Disease Management: Instruction for patients and their families focused on understanding respiratory conditions, treatment adherence, and system management.
What to Expect
The initial visit includes a comprehensive intake assessment followed by a guided introductory exercise session. This allows clinical staff to evaluate how the body responds to activity and establish a safe starting point.
Subsequent sessions are focused on gradual, measurable progression. Patients often observe meaningful improvements in endurance, strength, and overall activity tolerance over the course of the program.
Clinical outcomes are tracked throughout, with adjustments made to optimize each patient’s progress.
Scheduling and Availability
Pulmonary Rehabilitation services are offered at multiple Southern West Virginia Health System locations, with flexible scheduling options available during standard daytime hours.
Our team works closely with each patient to establish a consistent schedule and accommodates necessary changes when possible.
Getting Started
Participation in the Pulmonary Rehabilitation program requires a referral from a primary care provider or advanced practice practitioner. We accept both internal and external referrals.
If you are interested in enrolling:
- Speak with your provider about a referral
- Contact our Pulmonary Rehabilitation team at 304-824-5806 ext. 1276 for additional information
If you do not currently have a provider, Southern West Virginia Health System is accepting new patients and can assist with establishing care.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Session frequency and scheduling vary by location and patient needs. Our team works with you to establish a consistent schedule that supports your progress while accommodating your availability.
Yes. Exercise begins during your first appointment at a controlled and gradual level. This allows clinical staff to assess your tolerance and safely build your program moving forward.
Patients should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing and supportive footwear suitable for light exercise. This helps ensure safety and allows for full participation in all activities.
We understand that unexpected situations arise. Our team will work with you to reschedule missed sessions when possible to help you stay on track with the program.
While outcomes vary, many patients experience improved breathing efficiency, increased endurance, reduced symptoms, and greater confidence in performing daily activities.
Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and diagnosis. If you’re unsure about whether your plan is in-network, feel free to call our billing office at 304-824-5860. We’re happy to help you check your coverage.
Our Lincoln Primary Care Center offers the program on Mondays and Thursdays, with appointments available between 9 AM and 4 PM.
Our Man health center offers the program on Wednesdays and Fridays, with appointments available between 9 AM and 4 PM.
The program is named in honor of Grace Anne Dorney, a patient living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who experienced significant improvement through pulmonary rehabilitation. Her personal success led to a lifelong commitment to raising awareness and expanding access to these services.
Through the support of The Dorney Koppel Family Charitable Foundation, the Pulmonary Rehabilitation program at Southern West Virginia Health System was established to bring this level of care to communities with limited access. The name reflects both her story and the broader mission of helping patients take control of their condition and improve their quality of life.
