MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute Earns AACVPR Certification

The MemorialCare Heart & Vascular Institute at Orange Coast Medical Center has received national certification from the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) for its Cardiac Rehabilitation Program. This achievement, announced on February 16, 2026, positions Orange Coast Medical Center among a select group of hospitals that prioritize high-quality patient care for individuals recovering from cardiovascular events.

Recognition for Excellence in Patient Care

Achieving AACVPR certification is indicative of the program’s adherence to rigorous national standards for quality and patient outcomes. The certification process required extensive documentation and demonstrated the center’s commitment to improving patient strength, functional capacity, and overall heart health.

Dr. Jennifer Wong, Medical Director of Non-Invasive Cardiology at the institute, expressed pride in this recognition, stating, “We are incredibly proud to receive this certification from AACVPR, as it reflects our dedication to delivering the highest standard of care for heart patients.” She highlighted that the certification validates their commitment to evidence-based practices.

The Cardiac Rehabilitation Program at Orange Coast Medical Center integrates medically supervised exercise, educational resources, counseling, and family support. This multifaceted approach equips patients with essential tools to mitigate future health risks and enhance their recovery post-heart events, including heart attacks and surgeries like coronary artery bypass grafts.

Commitment to Lifelong Health

Dr. Wong emphasized the transformative impact of cardiac rehabilitation, noting, “Cardiac rehabilitation is about giving patients their lives back. Our program equips patients with the knowledge, confidence, and personalized support they need to rebuild strength, reduce future risks, and embrace a healthier, more active life.”

The AACVPR certification is valid for three years and signifies a program’s leadership in advanced practices and high-quality patient care. It is the only peer-reviewed accreditation process specific to cardiovascular and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, assessing adherence to evidence-based standards and performance measures introduced in 2018.

Orange Coast Medical Center is part of MemorialCare, a not-for-profit integrated healthcare system. Dedicated to community service through innovation and excellence, the center offers specialized care across various fields, including cancer, cardiac and vascular disease, and surgical weight loss, among others. The institution has received accolades such as the prestigious Magnet Status for Nursing Excellence and has been recognized as a top workplace.

For further information about the services and programs offered, visit memorialcare.org/OrangeCoast.

The AACVPR, founded in 1985, focuses on reducing morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases through education, prevention, rehabilitation, and research. Its mission centers on enhancing the quality of life for patients and their families, and more information can be found at www.aacvpr.org.