Mission:  To provide physician-directed, self-management education, training and support services through prevention and maintenance level programs for  patients with chronic disease or for those at high risk for the development of chronic disease.

VRMC Chronic Disease Services are available to all individuals living with Diabetes, Heart Disease, and Pulmonary Disease.  Our programs provide physician-directed disease self-management education, training and support services.  Programs are designed to meet the needs of patients newly diagnosed or those currently under a physician's care.  Programs provide initial learning and skills needed for the daily management of the disease, as well as support for the ongoing challenges of maintaining the lifestyle choices needed for successful treatment.  In addition, programs are available for individuals who are at high risk for the development of a chronic disease.  Physicians may refer individuals who are working to delay or prevent progress toward chronic disease such as pre-diabetes, weight reduction, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure.

VRMC Chronic Disease Services are located in the Medical Arts Building on the VRMC Hospital Campus.  Programs are staffed by a multidisciplinary team of health care professioinals which include Respiratory Therapist, Registered Nurses, Registered Dietitians, and Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologists.  Staff is certified in basic and advanced life support and, depending on specialty area, Diabetes education, respiratory care, wound care, and exercise physiology.  Facilities include an aerobic and strength training fitness center, health information library, internet access, and classroom and consult rooms.

Chronic Disease Service highlights:
All programs have met National Standards through the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation and the American Diabetes Association.

Program Staffing:
Heather Parenteau, Program Coordinator
Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist, Certified Diabetes Educator

Susan Stark, Registered Nurse
Certified Diabetes Educator, Certified Wound Care Nurse

Elana Pfeifer, Registered Dietitian

Linda Bump, Registered Dietitian

Rebecca Crain, Registered Clinical Exercise Physiologist

Deb Lekatz, Respiratory Therapist

Joe Buria, Registered Nurse

Joyce Koivu, Medical Secretary

Please click on the links below for additional program information:

Heart Care Programs