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

You will work with a Cardiac Rehab Specialist Case Manager to help guide you through the program, and Cardiac Rehab Cardiologist consultations are available in consultation with your Case Manager.

Virtual Cardiac Rehab (VCR) Program services include:

  • exercise options:  On-demand exercise videos, graphic/printed exercise sets and live-virtual classes;
  • weekly newsletter and live-virtual discussions on heart health topics;
  • virtual appointments with Dietitian, Cardiac Counsellor and Psychiatrist;
  • Special workshops or program offers, such as Meditation sessions.

Please note:  You must be a BC resident and physically be in BC to participate in the virtual program

Resources

Program fee policy

Our regular program fee is $100/month for six months.  We rely on program fees and annual fundraisers to keep our program running.  However, in times of the COVID-19 pandemic, we understand that individuals may be strongly affected financially, and we do not want finances to be a barrier to participation.  At this time, we do not require proof of financial burden.  Please discuss with your Case Manager during your intake appointment what you can reasonably afford every month, and the Case Manager will approve the discounted rate at their discretion.  In special circumstances, your program fee may be waived.

How to enroll

A referral from your family physician or specialist (cardiologist) is still necessary.  Due to the high demand for our program, we prioritize enrollment for those with a new cardiac diagnosis, event, or procedure.  Your physician can email your referral to: cardiacrehab@vch.ca or fax it to (604) 875-5794.  

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 Rehap 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.

Watch the Cardiac Wellness Workshops on YouTube