The Virtual Cardiac Rehab Program provides virtual rehabilitation options for individuals who have had a heart attack, coronary angioplasty, open heart surgery, angina, heart rhythm issues, and those at risk for developing heart disease.
What to expect
A 6-month virtual cardiac rehabilitation program offering the following services:
- Medical assessment and program supervision by a cardiologist
- Case Manager support to guide you through the program
- Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes management
- Support for anxiety, depression and stress management
- Dietary counselling
- Weekly exercise options: Monitored virtual exercise classes and at-home, on-demand exercise videos and graphic/printed exercise sets
- Weekly education on heart health topics: Virtual education presentations and at-home, on-demand email and web resources
How to enroll
Have your family doctor or cardiologist complete the VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health referral form and fax the completed form to 604-875-5794. Please note, you must be a B.C. resident and have a valid B.C. Personal Health Number.
Program fee policy
Program fee is $100/month. Subsidy is available for those requiring financial assistance.
Subsidy may also be available if participating in cardiac rehabilitation pilot projects or research studies.
On-demand videos
VGH Cardiac Rehab Program
The following exercise videos have been created for participants registered in the Vancouver General Hospital's Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs. Please be reminded that with any physical activity there exists the possibility, during exercise, of personal injury and adverse cardiovascular changes. If you experience symptoms such as dizziness, chest pain, shortness of breath, irregular heart rhythm at any time while exercising, you should stop immediately and seek medical help. The exercise information presented here is in no way intended as a substitute for medically supervised cardiac rehabilitation. We hope these exercise videos help you on your healthy heart fitness journey.
Watch the VGH Cardiac Rehab Program videos on YouTube
Cardiac Meditation Classes with Gwen Bevan
These meditation classes are recordings of previous classes and intended for both beginners and advanced meditators. You may want to have handy: a comfortable chair or place to sit on the floor, a yoga mat, a blanket, a meditation cushion, yoga blocks or cushions. If you do not have these items you can use what is available in your home. Please listen to your body and be sure that you are comfortable. If you experience pain, please stop or readjust. Please be patient with yourself as it is often over a period of time that the mind begins to learn how to be calm and peaceful. See you there!
Watch the Cardiac Meditation Classes with Gwen Bevan videos on YouTube
Sivasana with Gwen Bevan
This Sivasana or Relaxation is recorded in a professional recording studio and is the 20 min relaxation session only (no teaching). Sivasana can be helpful before sleep, if you are experiencing anxiety or just to relax. Enjoy! Namaste, Gwen
Listen to the Sivasana with Gwen Bevan playlist on SoundCloud
Cardiac Wellness Workshop March 4 – April 8, 2021
If you are signed up for the Wellness Workshop but are unable to attend or participate, all three of the workshops are now available on YouTube. Please note: Week 1 ends at the 40 minute mark due to unforeseen technical difficulties during that session. We apologize for the inconvenience.
Frequently Asked Questions
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How long is the Cardiac Rehab Program?
The cardiac rehab program is 6 months long.
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Is there a cost for the Virtual Cardiac Rehab Program?
VGH cardiac rehabilitation programs have a fee of $100 per month, with financial subsidies available for those with financial barriers.
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What space or equipment do I need to participate in the virtual program?
You do not need a big space – a space large enough for a chair, and for you to take 2 steps forward, sideways and backward. You can also substitute equipment with items easily accessible at home. For example, you can use cans or bottles of water instead of handheld weights.
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Is virtual exercise safe?
Yes, virtual exercise can be a safe and effective component of cardiac rehabilitation for many patients. All new patients undergo a thorough cardiology assessment prior to participation. The program will also recommend a safety plan in case of emergency. You will also learn about safe exercise principles and self-monitoring and self-management strategies.
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Can I attend the virtual program without a computer?
Yes, you can attend the virtual program without a computer. This will mainly consist of telephone check-ins. To fully participate and benefit from the virtual program, we recommend that you have computer (or a tablet or smartphone) and internet access.
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Can I attend the virtual program from anywhere in the world?
No, you must be a resident of the province of British Columbia and be physically in the province while you attend any “live” virtual sessions.
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Can anyone attend the virtual program?
Our virtual program is offered to those who are unable to attend the hospital, or centre-based programs either due to scheduling conflicts or location. You must be a B.C. resident to register.
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What is a 6-minute walk test?
The 6-minute walk test measures how far you can walk in six minutes. It is used to assess aerobic capacity and how well your body responds to moderate exercise. If you do not have access to an exercise testing facility, you may be a candidate for a virtual and monitored, 6-minute walk test, offered to participants of the Virtual Outreach Cardiac Rehab program. This test will help the program provide you with safe and individualized exercise recommendations. Learn more about the 6 minute walk test
Resources
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Vancouver Coastal Health - patient guide to cardiac surgery
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University Health Network
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Heart and Stroke Foundation
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America Heart Association
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Education videos on Heart Failure
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Education and learning modules on Heart Failure and Heart Health
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Ottawa Heart Institute - guides and videos
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Dietitians of Canada - find a dietitian and nutrition resources
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Here to Help resource library and modules
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Heart and Stroke Foundation - reduce stress
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Heart and Stroke Foundation - emotions and feelings
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American Heart Association - meditation and mindfulness videos
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American Heart Association - sleep
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Northern Health - mental health
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Norther Health - Indigenous health
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Northern Health - Indigenous supports
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First Nations Health Centers in the Northwest of British Columbia
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Hours of operation
- Monday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Tuesday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Wednesday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Thursday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Friday: 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
- Saturday: 8:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
- Sunday: Closed
For class schedules, please contact the program. We are closed on statutory holidays.
VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health
- Main phone: 604-875-5389
