Two Bronson Hospitals Earn National Recertification for Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs
L-R: Bronson Methodist Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation team members Yovonka Clopton, staff assistant; Susan Charkowski, RN; Maddi Allan, exercise specialist; Kelsey Stone. exercise specialist; Gabrielle McAlary, exercise specialist; Steven Cramer, lead exercise specialist; and Lisa Blissick, RN. Missing from the photo: Carley Lisak, exercise specialist.
AACVPR recognition highlights Bronson’s dedication to delivering exceptional, patient-focused cardiac care in Kalamazoo and South Haven
KALAMAZOO, Mich. – Bronson Methodist Hospital and Bronson South Haven Hospital have once again earned national recertification for their cardiac rehabilitation programs from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR).
This prestigious certification reflects each program’s commitment to providing high-quality care that enhances recovery and long-term health for cardiac patients.
Bronson’s cardiac rehabilitation programs is designed to help patients safely return to a healthy, active lifestyle following serious cardiac events or procedures such as heart attacks, stent placement, valve surgery, open-heart surgery or heart failure.
Eligible patients – whether referred internally or externally – can participate in these programs.
L-R: Bronson South Haven Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation exercise specialists Emily Hoogland, Caleb Gibson, Kacey Kean, Randall Miller and Taryn Chapko alongside Bronson’s lead exercise specialist Steven Cramer.
Each year, Bronson Methodist cares for an average of 350 cardiac rehab patients, while Bronson South Haven serves around 100 patients.
Through a combination of exercise, education, counseling and ongoing support for patients and their families, these programs help patients recover more effectively and reduce the risk of future cardiac events.
“This certification is a true reflection of our team’s dedication to excellence in cardiac rehabilitation,” said Kelly Brunson, BS, ACSM-CEP, cardiovascular services supervisor. “It confirms that Bronson’s programs consistently follow best practices, meet rigorous standards and prioritize patient-centered outcomes.”
AACVPR certification is awarded following a thorough application process that includes extensive documentation of practices and outcomes.
As the only peer-reviewed accreditation in the field, AACVPR Program Certification ensures programs meet the most current, evidence-based standards. Certification is valid for three years.
Bronson Healthcare offers AACVPR-certified cardiovascular rehabilitation programs at its Battle Creek, Kalamazoo and South Haven locations. To learn more, visit Bronson Cardiac Rehabilitation.
About AACVPR
Founded in 1985, the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) is a multidisciplinary organization dedicated to reducing morbidity, mortality and disability from cardiovascular and pulmonary disease through education, prevention, rehabilitation, research and disease management. Central to its mission is improving patients’ quality of life.
