People living with long‑term lung conditions across South Tees are being encouraged to refer themselves for pulmonary rehabilitation without having to consult their GP.
Pulmonary rehabilitation is a free, NHS‑funded programme designed to help people with conditions such as COPD, asthma, bronchiectasis, pulmonary fibrosis and other long‑term respiratory illnesses. It helps to manage breathlessness, improve fitness and quality of life, and reduce the risk of hospital admissions.
Delivered by a specialist NHS team, the programme runs over seven weeks, with two supervised sessions per week combining tailored exercise and education.
Sessions are adapted to each individual’s ability and health needs and are suitable for people of all ages and fitness levels.
Andy Fisher, specialist respiratory physiotherapist, said: “Patient feedback is excellent with significant benefits such as being able to walk further, being less breathless and increased confidence.”
Many patients don’t want to leave after the seven-week course!
“This week is Love Your Lungs Week so what better time to get in touch and join our pulmonary rehab classes?”
Evidence shows that pulmonary rehabilitation:
- Improves breathlessness and confidence in daily activities
- Helps people walk further and stay more active
- Reduces hospital admissions following flare‑ups
- Improves quality of life, mood and wellbeing
To self-refer for pulmonary rehabilitation, complete the online form on the South Tees Hospitals website.
The simple referral process takes just a few minutes.
Pulmonary Rehabilitation is available across the NHS. Patients outside the South Tees area are advised to speak to their GP or healthcare professional about referral to their local service.
Love your lungs week
Love Your Lungs Week (23 to 29 June 2026) aims to raise awareness of lung health, reduce stigma around breathlessness, and encourage people not to delay seeking help