FARMINGTON — Franklin Memorial Hospital announces the first-ever certification of its pulmonary rehabilitation program by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. The certification recognises FMH for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care.

Pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with pulmonary problems, such as COPD, emphysema, chronic bronchitis and other respiratory diseases, recover faster and improve their quality of life. It includes exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families. Pulmonary rehabilitation cannot cure lung disease, but it can greatly improve one’s quality of life.

David Ames, cardiopulmonary manager; Dr. David Hyde, pulmonary rehabilitation medical director; Vicki Adams, RN; and Meghan Hoar, CRT; were actively involved in the application process that required extensive documentation of the program’s practices. The AACVPR Program Certification is the only peer-review accreditation process designed to review individual programs for adherence to standards and guidelines developed and published by the AACVPR and other professional societies.

The FMH Pulmonary Rehabilitation program, located on the first floor of the hospital, sees patients from 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m on Tuesdays and Thursdays. For more information, call 779-2734 or 800-398-6031, ext. 2734.