Abstract
Any patient with symptomatic, moderate to severe chronic lung disease may be a candidate for a pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) program. Prior to entering a PR program, patients should be stabilized on standard medical therapy and accurately diagnosed with recent pulmonary function tests (PFTs). Exercise testing can help to establish safe exercise parameters. PR offers a cost-effective method of improving function, controlling dyspnea, and reducting respiratory-related hospitalizations. This article discusses the PR program established by Seton Medical Center in the San Francisco area and the results it achieved.
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