University of Iowa Heart and Vascular Center’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program receives national certification

University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics Heart and Vascular Center’s cardiovascular rehabilitation program has been certified by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR). The Heart and Vascular Center was recognized for its commitment to improving the quality of life by enhancing standards of care.

Cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with cardiovascular problems such as heart attacks or coronary artery bypass graft surgery, and pulmonary problems, like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), include exercise, education, counseling, and support for patients and their families.

“It is an honor to see our center and our staff be recognized for the tremendous work being done to improve the quality of life for our heart patients,” says Michael Muellerleile, MD, director of cardiovascular rehabilitation for the Heart and Vascular Center. “Achieving certification for our program identifies the UI Heart and Vascular Center as a leader in cardiovascular rehabilitation and highlights the expertise we are able to provide to our patients.” 

The UI Hospitals & Clinics Heart and Vascular Center’s cardiovascular rehabilitation program participated in an application process that requires extensive documentation of the program’s practices. 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 AACVPR and other professional societies. Each program is reviewed by the AACVPR Program Certification Committee and Certification is awarded by the AACVPR Board of Directors. 

AACVPR-certified programs are recognized as leaders in the field of cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation because they offer the most advanced practices available. AACVPR Program Certification is valid for three years.