SSM Health introducing pulmonary rehabilitation program in Waupun

March 10, 2025

WAUPUN – SSM Health Waupun Memorial Hospital (620 W. Brown St.) is introducing an outpatient pulmonary rehabilitation program starting March 11.

Exercise Physiologist Thorne Wittstruck said pulmonary rehabilitation programs are designed to help people with pulmonary concerns (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), respiratory symptoms, etc.) recover faster and live healthier via exercise, education, counseling and support for patients and their families. 

Wittstruck said pulmonary rehabilitation services will be provided by the hospital’s cardiac/pulmonary rehab staff and respiratory therapists, who will evaluate individuals to determine personal needs and limitations.

“A physical activity program is then designed to help participants reach their personal goals and recommended guidelines,” he said. “Oxygen saturation, shortness of breath level, exertion level and heart rate are monitored during physical activity. Exercise is progressed according to the individual’s tolerance and capacity, gradually increasing to a target goal.”

Counseling and education to help participants understand their condition and how to manage it, Wittstruck said, will also be offered.

He said education is offered on topics such as breathing strategies, respiratory devices, medications, smoking cessation, pulmonary anatomy and physiology the effects of chronic lung disease, nutritional guidelines, coping techniques and the benefits of exercise and maintaining physical activities.

A free public open house is scheduled at the hospital from 1-3 p.m., Tuesday, March 11.