Risk Reduction Program

Partners in Cardiology (PIC) is a cardiovascular disease prevention program based on your decision to eat well, manage stress, and include exercise as a part of your daily routine. The goal of the PIC Program is to help you prevent cardiovascular disease through the reduction of risk factors including high blood pressure, elevated cholesterol, smoking, physical inactivity, and obesity.

As a new PIC Program member, you will meet with a staff member to orient you to the program, review any available test results or recommendations from your physician, and develop a personalized risk reduction program designed around your personal goals and your current level of risk for developing cardiovascular disease.

Exercise

The Partners in Cardiology Program offers you an up-to-date exercise facility that includes: an indoor track, treadmills, arm and leg stationary cycles, rowing machines, stair climbers, weight equipment, and complete locker room facilities. The exercise center is open to members Monday - Friday, 6:00 am - 5:30 pm.

Under the supervision of exercise professionals you will learn the proper way to safely begin and confidently increase your activity. Our exercise professionals will design and oversee your individualized exercise program. Fitness and health profiles are also available and include the evaluation of resting heart rate and blood pressure; cardiovascular fitness; blood lipids including levels of cholesterol, low density lipo proteins (LDL) and high density lipo proteins (HDL); muscular endurance and strength; body composition; and flexibility.

Your Diet

The PIC Program also recognizes the importance of proper nutrition in the prevention of cardiovascular disease. Members have the opportunity to meet with a registered dietitian to review dietary habits and establish new eating goals. Weight management courses, cooking schools and workshops, and one-on-one counseling are designed to assist with achieving your goals.

Identifying and Managing Your Stress

Assisting you with taking control of your risk factors and reacting appropriately to life's stressors are important components of the PIC Program. Clinical psychologists are available to provide behavior modification and stress management and to assist you in making adjustments to a new lifestyle - one designed to significantly reduce your risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

Smoking Cessation

One of the greatest risk factors in the development of cardiovascular disease is smoking. The staff of the PIC Program coordinates Smoking Cessation classes for those of you who need help in quitting.

The Next Step

We invite you to come and visit our center, talk with a staff member, and join Partners in Cardiology for a fun and healthy enhancement of your life. Please feel free to contact The Department of Prevention and Rehabilitation at (402) 280-4109.