Baptist Hospital has become the first facility in Northwest Florida to offer intensive cardiac rehabilitation, expanding recovery options for patients who have suffered serious heart events according to a news release.

Through a partnership with Pritikin ICR, Baptist is introducing a Medicare-approved, evidence-based program that doubles the number of rehab sessions compared to traditional care, increasing from 36 to 72. The program combines supervised exercise with education on nutrition, stress management and overall wellness.

“We are thrilled to offer this comprehensive program that aligns our current cardiovascular services and our vision to offer a holistic approach to care,” said Baptist Hospital Administrator Beau Pollard in the release. “In addition to medically supervised exercise, patients will receive guidance from our team of experts in the fields of medicine, exercise, nutrition and mental health.”

Per the release, the Pritikin ICR model moves beyond exercise alone, emphasizing the importance of healthy eating and a positive mindset. Patients receive practical tools for reducing risk factors, adopting sustainable habits and supporting long-term heart health.

Education sessions include instruction on heart-healthy eating, stress reduction, medication compliance, tobacco cessation, biomechanical limitations, sleep strategies and developing a healthy mindset. Topics also address reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes.

Eligibility extends to patients who have experienced one of seven cardiovascular events, including heart attack, coronary artery bypass, heart valve repair or replacement, angioplasty and stents, heart or lung transplant, heart failure and angina. Coverage is available through Medicare and most insurance plans the release said.

The Baptist Hospital Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Department is located in the Bear Family Foundation Health Center at 125 Baptist Way in Pensacola. More information is available at www.ebaptisthealthcare.org or by calling (448) 227-6220.