Daviess Community Hospital Encourages Heart Health During Cardiac Rehab Week

Daviess Community Hospital is recognizing Cardiac Rehab Week this February (February 9-15), joining healthcare providers nationwide to raise awareness about the benefits of cardiac rehabilitation. Connie Wilson, MSN, RN, CCRP, CCEP, a cardiac rehabilitation nurse since 1991, highlights the need for patient-focused programs that help individuals recover from heart events and reduce future risks. 

“Cardiac rehab empowers patients to take control of their heart disease instead of letting it control them,” Wilson said. “It doesn’t matter if we save your life if you’re afraid to live after your heart attack. Our goal is to restore confidence and independence.”  

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Million Hearts initiative, only about 20% of eligible patients participate in cardiac rehab, despite its proven benefits in lowering hospital readmissions and improving overall quality of life. Wilson said Daviess Community Hospital aims to make the program accessible for every patient who needs it.  

“We work with patients to address obstacles like cost or transportation, and we coordinate closely with their cardiologists to ensure medications are effective,” Wilson said. “Because we’re a smaller program, we can offer a very personalized approach, tailoring exercises and education to each patient’s unique situation.”  

Cardiac rehabilitation at Daviess Community Hospital includes supervised exercise, nutritional guidance and stress management education. Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover rehab services; for those without coverage, hospital staff will explore affordable options. Wilson noted the program welcomes individuals at any fitness level, whether they require a wheelchair or simply want guidance on safe exercise to protect their heart.  

“When a patient has a heart attack, especially with significant damage, cardiac rehab helps them regain confidence and learn how to trust their body again,” Wilson said. “I always remind patients there’s always something we can do to improve their future health.” Wilson, who lives in Shoals with her husband, Kevin, has two grown children and three grandchildren. When she’s not helping patients, she shares gluten-free and sugar-free recipes on her YouTube channel, “Cooking With Connie,” demonstrating her commitment to healthier living in and out of the hospital. 

For more information about Daviess Community Hospital’s Cardiac Rehabilitation program or to schedule an appointment, call (812) 254-8895. Visit the hospital’s website (dchosp.org) for additional resources on heart health and Cardiac Rehab Week activities. 


About Daviess Community Hospital  
Daviess Community Hospital (DCH) stands as a beacon of health and wellness in southwestern Indiana. Serving the region with one 48-bed hospital, six specialty clinics, and seven outpatient clinics, DCH is dedicated to providing top-tier medical care. Nestled in Washington, Indiana, this not-for-profit health system is one of the area’s largest private employers, boasting a team of over 620 passionate professionals. DCH is unwavering in its mission to improving the health of the people of the communities it serves not only by delivering excellent medical care, but also ensuring accessibility, promoting healthy living, and collaborating with local agencies to address community health needs. As an affiliate of Ascension St. Vincent, DCH is committed to being the healthcare provider of choice, continuously striving for excellence and innovation. Discover more about DCH’s services and commitment to health at dchosp.org.