Faith Community Health Systems highlights cardiac rehabilitation during American Heart Month
JACKSBORO, Texas (February 16, 2026) — A heart attack, heart surgery, or cardiac procedure can change a person’s life in an instant. While emergency care addresses the immediate crisis, recovery is a longer journey—one that requires time, guidance, and ongoing support. During American Heart Month, Faith Community Health Systems (FCHS) is reminding patients and families that cardiac rehabilitation plays a vital role in helping individuals regain strength, confidence, and control after a heart-related event.
Cardiac rehabilitation, available at FCHS, is a medically supervised program designed to support patients as they recover from heart attacks, heart surgery, and other cardiac conditions. The program combines monitored exercise, education, and encouragement to help patients move forward safely while reducing the risk of future cardiovascular problems.
“After a heart event, many patients are understandably cautious and unsure about what activities are safe,” said Cara Epps, RRT-ACCS, NPS, Director of Cardiopulmonary Services at Faith Community Health Systems. “Cardiac rehabilitation provides a structured environment where patients can rebuild strength at an appropriate pace while being closely monitored by trained professionals.”
At Faith Community Health Systems, cardiac rehabilitation begins with an individualized assessment. Each patient’s program is tailored to their medical history, current health status, and recovery goals. Exercise sessions are carefully supervised to ensure safety while gradually improving endurance, strength, and overall heart function.
“Recovery isn’t about pushing too hard or rushing the process,” said Staci Kenvin, RRT, Manager of the Cardiac Rehabilitation Department. “It’s about steady progress and building confidence. I work closely with each patient to make sure they feel supported every step of the way.”
American Heart Month, observed each February, serves as a reminder that heart health does not end when a patient leaves the hospital. Continued care and follow-up are essential parts of recovery, especially for individuals who have experienced a heart attack or undergone a cardiac procedure.
Patients who participate in cardiac rehabilitation often report improved physical strength, increased confidence, and a better understanding of how to manage their heart health. The supportive setting also allows patients to connect with healthcare professionals who can answer questions, address concerns, and provide reassurance throughout the recovery process.
Individuals recovering from a heart attack, heart surgery, congestive heart failure, or other qualifying cardiac conditions may be eligible for cardiac rehabilitation. A referral from a medical provider is typically required, and many insurance plans, including Medicare, cover cardiac rehabilitation services for qualifying diagnoses.
Faith Community Health Systems encourages patients to talk with their primary care provider or cardiologist during a wellness exam about whether cardiac rehabilitation may be appropriate for their recovery plan.
The Cardiac Rehabilitation Department at Faith continues to expand its role in supporting community health by providing a comprehensive range of services that extend beyond traditional rehabilitation care. In addition to delivering evidence-based cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, the department also administers treadmill stress testing services as part of its diagnostic offerings.
The stress test program supports early identification and evaluation of cardiovascular concerns, offering a safe, clinically supervised environment for diagnostic assessment. This service pays an important role in promoting employee wellness, improving early detection of cardiac conditions, and supporting timely medical intervention when needed.
“Our goal is to provide accessible, high-quality cardiopulmonary care that supports both recovery and prevention,” Epps emphasized. “By integrating diagnostic testing with rehabilitation services, we are able to deliver a more complete continuum of care for our patients.