This module introduces learners to the principles, scope, and importance of cardiac rehabilitation in modern cardiovascular care. Participants will explore the epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases, the multidisciplinary nature of rehabilitation programs, patient-centered care models, and evidence-based guidelines. The module establishes a strong foundation for understanding how rehabilitation improves clinical outcomes, functional capacity, and quality of life.
Cardiovascular Anatomy, Physiology, and Pathophysiology
This module provides a comprehensive review of cardiovascular anatomy and physiology relevant to rehabilitation practice. Learners will understand the mechanisms underlying common cardiovascular diseases and how physiological changes affect exercise tolerance and recovery. Emphasis is placed on integrating pathophysiological knowledge into rehabilitation planning.
This module focuses on patient evaluation techniques and risk assessment methods used in cardiac rehabilitation. Learners will gain expertise in collecting medical histories, conducting physical examinations, interpreting diagnostic investigations, and stratifying patients according to cardiovascular risk to ensure safe participation in rehabilitation programs.
Exercise is the cornerstone of cardiac rehabilitation. This module explores exercise physiology, principles of training, and evidence-based exercise prescription for patients with cardiovascular conditions. Learners will develop individualized exercise programs that optimize safety, effectiveness, and long-term adherence.
Rehabilitation for Coronary Artery Disease and Post-Cardiac Events
This module addresses rehabilitation approaches for patients recovering from myocardial infarction, coronary artery bypass graft surgery, angioplasty, and other coronary interventions. Learners will understand disease-specific protocols and strategies to enhance recovery while reducing recurrence risk.
This module focuses on rehabilitation strategies for patients with chronic heart failure and advanced cardiovascular disease. Participants will learn specialized exercise prescriptions, symptom monitoring techniques, and multidisciplinary interventions aimed at improving functional capacity and reducing hospital readmissions.
Lifestyle modification is critical for cardiovascular disease prevention and recovery. This module equips learners with skills to address modifiable risk factors through structured interventions focused on smoking cessation, weight management, stress reduction, and behavior change.
Nutrition plays a vital role in cardiovascular recovery and prevention. This module explores dietary assessment, nutritional counseling, and evidence-based dietary patterns that support heart health. Learners will develop practical strategies to guide patients toward sustainable dietary improvements.
Psychological and social factors significantly influence recovery and adherence to rehabilitation programs. This module focuses on identifying psychosocial challenges, providing support, and integrating mental health interventions within cardiac rehabilitation services.
This module examines the unique needs of diverse patient populations, including older adults, women, patients with multiple comorbidities, and those with congenital heart disease. Learners will adapt rehabilitation strategies to address individual patient characteristics and clinical complexities.
Program Management, Quality Improvement, and Tele-Rehabilitation
This module prepares fellows to design, manage, and evaluate cardiac rehabilitation programs. Participants will learn quality improvement methodologies, healthcare management principles, outcome measurement techniques, and the growing role of tele-rehabilitation technologies.
The final module integrates knowledge and skills acquired throughout the fellowship. Learners will engage in research activities, evidence appraisal, clinical case presentations, and a capstone project focused on improving cardiac rehabilitation practice and patient outcomes.