150 patients referred to Vale of Leven cardiac rehab team

Once referred, patients are assessed to determine the most beneficial course of action for their specific circumstances, with most being seen within two weeks.

Almost 70 people completed the full course this year.

The Cardiac Rehabilitation team at the hospital is made up of clinical nurse specialist Lillian McCurley, cardiac rehabilitation specialist physiotherapist Rhona Burch, healthcare support worker Sharon Timmins, and team lead Gillian Armstrong.

The team is a crucial source of advice and support for individuals recovering from heart attacks or experiencing heart-related issues.

Activities arranged by the team are designed not only for rehabilitation but also to illustrate the wider health benefits that can positively impact heart health and general lifestyle.

Rhona said: "I came here from another site and when I joined I started looking at how many people and who we had coming to us.

"By keeping track of user data, we’re able to see what works and for who.

"Are face-to-face sessions the best option or would a phone or video consultation be useful?

"It’s very much a service that’s rooted in the community, and we’re able to shape what we do."

Lillian added: "We’re also able to see people in a community setting, rather than just in a clinical space.

"We’ll often take part in the physical activities when we run the class in the local gym.

"By doing that we can show that the basics of what we’re teaching are good lifestyle choices – exercise, diet and the like – that can be of benefit to anyone, of any ability, at any time."

The team works closely with their service users.

One participant in the course said: “You have given me so much confidence and reassurance, and help me to manage and navigate my way through all the different equipment and exercises which you offered in the Cardiac Rehab programme.

“I cannot believe what a difference attending the classes has made to my general wellbeing and progress.”