Community Hospital in Grand Junction has received certification for its cardiovascular rehabilitation program.

The American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation awarded the designation, which remains valid for three years.

“The entire cardiac rehab staff has worked tirelessly to earn this certification, and we are extremely proud of the accomplishment,” said Joe Gerardi, chief operating officer and chief nursing officer at Community Hospital. “This certification is the gold standard for cardiovascular rehabilitation programs and demonstrates the high quality of care and engagement our staff provides to patients.”

Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs help patients who’ve had chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, heart attacks, respiratory symptoms and other conditions recover faster and live healthier. The programs include counseling, education, exercise and support.

To earn the certification, Community Hospital went through an application and peer-reviewed process to assess programs for adherence to guidelines and standards developed by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation and other professional societies. A certification committee reviews applications and the association board of directors awards certifications.

Community Hospital provides inpatient care and a range of outpatient diagnostic services. For more information, visit the website located at https://yourcommunityhospital.com.