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VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health

Referral

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. 

VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health referral form

The centre consists of programs which offer the following services:

  • Medical Assessment by a cardiologist
  • Test your ability to exercise and carry out activities
  • Group exercise with individualized exercise prescription
  • Education sessions about heart disease and healthy living
  • Aggressive treatments and support to reduce heart disease risks
  • Blood pressure, cholesterol and diabetes management
  • Support for anxiety, depression and stress management
  • Dietary counselling
  • Specialty workshops such as Yoga and meditation (additional fees may apply)

Frequently Asked Questions

  • How long is the Cardiac Rehab Program?

    The cardiac rehab program is 6 months long.

  • Is there a cost for the Cardiac Rehab Program?

    VGH cardiac rehabilitation programs have a fee of $100 per month, with financial subsidies available for those with financial barriers.

    The Happy Hearts community programs have their own separate fee structure, depending on the organization.

  • Can I choose what program to participate in?

    You can state your preference for your program of choice.  Our care team will make their recommendation on the most suitable program for you, considering your personal medical history, needs and resources available to support you in your heart recovery.

  • Is there a waitlist for program enrollment?

    Yes, we have a waitlist for program enrollment. Due to the waitlist, we prioritize enrollment for those who have a diagnosis of a cardiovascular condition and have never attended cardiac rehabilitation.

  • What happens after I complete the program?

    Upon completion of the 6 months program, participants can either exercise on their own or participate in community-based exercise programs such as the Happy Hearts community-based maintenance exercise classes (managed with Vancouver Park Board and Jewish Community Centre). 

  • 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.

  • I am still working. Do you have any after-hour or weekend classes?

    Yes, we offer early morning and Saturday classes as well. We also have a virtual cardiac rehabilitation program.

  • Can I enroll with a family member?

    Yes, you can enroll with a family member. However, they will also need a referral. We will try our best to accommodate but all referrals are prioritized so they may not be enrolling at the same time as you.

  • Do I have to be fit to join the exercise classes?

    Absolutely not!  We meet you where you are at!  Our team will work with you to create a personal exercise plan to help you improve your fitness.

  • What is an exercise stress test?

    An exercise stress test checks for changes in your heart while you exercise.  This will help the program provide you with safe and individualized exercise recommendations. Learn more about exercise stress tests. 

Donations

The VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health relies on yearly fundraisers to offer the numerous services available to our participants. Since 1998, through the generous support of current participants and alumni, we have raised over $1 million to help our program grow.

Donate to the VGH Centre for Cardiovascular Health

Resources

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