Step 1:
Get a referral from your doctor
Great news! You may have received an automated referral to cardiac rehab. Check your hospital discharge packet or online portal to see if you have one.
If you don’t see one, you can ask your care team for one during a follow up appointment or by calling your doctor’s office.
Remember, cardiac rehab may not be a good fit for everyone, so ask your care team to verify if you are eligible before they send the referral.
Not sure what to say?
Try this short script when you talk to your care team:
“I’m worried about my heart health after my [recent cardiac event]. I’ve heard that cardiac rehab can be very beneficial. I’m wondering if cardiac rehab is a good option to reduce my risk of future problems. Would you be able to refer me to a cardiac rehab program?”
American Heart Association Referral Card
This simple resource can help you collect information on cardiac rehab program referral options from your care team.
American Heart Association Referral Card (Spanish)
This simple resource can help you collect information on cardiac rehab program referral options from your care team.
In a sense, the initial heart surgery saved my life the first time; but cardiac rehab saved it a second time. The rehab people performed a small miracle by restoring my self-confidence.
– John, Cardiac Rehab Participant
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