Exercise Physiologist (MHO) in South Bend, Indiana at Beacon Health System

Reports to the Medical Director. The Exercise Physiologist is responsible for implementing the exercise component of the Traditional Cardiac Rehabilitation program, as well as Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Supervised Exercise Therapy (SET). This role emphasizes patient safety, effective use of exercise equipment, and proper form in a clinical fitness setting. The Exercise Physiologist supports patients through critical phases of recovery, ensuring a safe and encouraging environment. They monitor patient response to exercise interventions and collaborate closely with Registered Nurses and Respiratory Therapists as part of a multidisciplinary team. This role contributes to the development and implementation of individualized treatment plans to ensure high-quality, patient-centered care.

MISSION, VALUES and SERVICE GOALS

• MISSION: We deliver outstanding care, inspire health, and connect with heart.
• VALUES: Trust. Respect. Integrity. Compassion.
• SERVICE GOALS: Personally connect. Keep everyone informed. Be on their team.

Standard of Care:

• Organizes, supervises, and delivers the exercise portion of Traditional Cardiac, Pulmonary, and SET rehabilitation according to established clinical guidelines and protocols.
• Performs body composition/BMI/anthropometric and other assessments as necessary.
• Provides individualized exercise prescriptions based on ACSM guidelines for each participant.
• Updates exercise prescriptions following graded exercise testing or clinical reassessment.
• Documents exercise session data accurately and thoroughly.
• Collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to develop and adjust treatment plans.
• Responds to patient questions and supports proper equipment use and exercise form.
• Promotes a high level of patient satisfaction and engagement.
• Participates in bi-monthly evening staff meetings.
• Instructs patients on proper execution, progression, and safety of exercises.
• Assists in Pulmonary Rehab and SET programming as needed.

Maintains Equipment:

• Maintains knowledge of equipment function and safety.
• Ensures exercise equipment is cleaned, maintained, and problems are reported promptly.
• Supports regular evaluation checks and maintenance procedures.

Emergency Procedures:

• Acts promptly in emergency situations and participates in team response.
• Reports any clinical changes in patient condition to the appropriate team member.
• Attends quarterly mock code training sessions to maintain emergency response readiness.
• Recognizes abnormal rhythms and symptoms and communicates findings appropriately.

Exercise Education:

• Provides patient education on exercise guidelines and safe practices.
• Provides individualized exercise counseling, fostering rapport and encouraging long-term engagement.

Program Development:

• Assists in promoting the rehab program to potential participants and healthcare providers.
• Engages in educational outreach and represents the program in community health initiatives.

Personal Development:

• Models’ healthy behavior and embodies principles of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation.
• Understands and adheres to Beacon Health policies, procedures, and mission.
• Completes competency validations to ensure high-quality care delivery.

ORGANIZATIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES

Associate complies with the following organizational requirements:

• Attends and participates in department meetings and is accountable for all information shared.
• Completes mandatory education, annual competencies and department specific education within established timeframes.
• Completes annual employee health requirements within established timeframes.
• Maintains license/certification, registration in good standing throughout fiscal year.
• Direct patient care providers are required to maintain current BCLS (CPR) and other certifications as required by position/department.
• Consistently utilizes appropriate universal precautions, protective equipment, and ergonomic techniques to protect patient and self.
• Adheres to regulatory agency requirements, survey process and compliance.
• Complies with established organization and department policies.
• Is available for overtime and shift changes when necessary.

Commitment to Beacon's six-point Operating System, referred to as The Beacon Way:

• Leverage innovation everywhere.
• Cultivate human talent.
• Embrace performance improvement.
• Build greatness through accountability.
• Use information to improve and advance.
• Communicate clearly and continuously.

Education and Experience:

The knowledge, skills and abilities as indicated are normally acquired through the successful completion of the following:

• Bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science or Exercise Physiology required.
• Two years of Cardiac or Pulmonary rehabilitation experience preferred.
• Clinical certification within one year of employment (if not currently certified) in American College of Sports Medicine as either a Certified Clinical Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-CEP) or Certified Exercise Physiologist (ACSM-EP) and/or American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation as a Certified Cardiac rehabilitation Professional (AACVPR-CCRP)
• Strong understanding of medical terminology, basic anatomy, and physiology.
• Current certification in American Heart Association BCLS (CPR) required.
• Current certification in American Heart Association Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS) preferred. Will need to obtain within 90 days of employment if not currently ACLS certified.

Knowledge & Skills:

• Expertise in exercise prescription, programming, and progression.
• Proficiency with exercise equipment setup and maintenance.
• Understanding of EKG rhythms and physiological response to exercise.
• Ability to demonstrate and teach proper exercise techniques and safety protocols.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to support a compassionate, patient-centered environment.
• Proficiency in documentation and electronic records.
• Confident public speaking and group education skills for leading patient education sessions.
• Knowledge of adult learning principles and motivational coaching strategies.
• Commitment to team-based care and emotional support during patient recovery.

Working Conditions:

• Works in an active clinical fitness environment with frequent patient interaction, occasional interruptions, and fluctuating noise levels.
• Requires flexibility in hours and schedule.
• Requires physical endurance for standing and walking throughout most of the shift.
• Occasional community outreach or off-site activity participation may be required.

Physical Demands:

• Must possess physical ability and stamina to deliver care in an active environment.
• Manual dexterity to manipulate equipment.
• Adequate vision and hearing to monitor patients effectively.
• Primarily standing and walking work with limited sitting.
• May be required to assist in lifting or transferring patients in emergencies.