Boone County Health Center Named 2025 Cardiac Rehab Program of the Year!

By: Aprill Murphy

Albion, NE (Nov 19, 2025) – Boone County Health Center (BCHC) has been honored with the 2025 Cardiac Rehab Program of the Year by the Nebraska Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Network (NCVPRN). BCHC is the only facility in the state to receive this distinction, which celebrates a Nebraska-based cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation program demonstrating exceptional leadership, patient service, and commitment to advancing cardiovascular and pulmonary health.

The Program of the Year Award is given to a facility that not only provides outstanding patient care but also shows excellence in community education, professional leadership, and advocacy. Recipients must demonstrate participation in National Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week, support legislative improvement efforts, promote heart and lung health in their communities, contribute to professional presentations, and maintain active involvement with NCVPRN through committee or board service.

This is not the first time the Health Center’s Cardiac Rehabilitation Program has received statewide recognition — the program was also named Program of the Year in 2019, underscoring its longstanding commitment to excellence.

BCHC’s Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation Program has a rich history of innovation and quality. It was first established in 1987 and went on to become one of the first nationally certified programs in Nebraska by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR) in 1999. This certification — the only peer-reviewed accreditation of its kind — is recognized worldwide as the gold standard for programs adhering to rigorous clinical and professional standards.

“This award is a testament to our entire team’s dedication to helping patients regain strength, confidence, and quality of life after cardiac or pulmonary events,” said Angie Swantek, RN, Cardiac Rehab Director. “We take great pride in offering a program that blends compassionate care with the highest professional standards, and we’re honored to be recognized once again by NCVPRN.”

Under Swantek’s leadership, Boone County Health Center continues to expand its impact, not only through exceptional patient outcomes but also by fostering community awareness and promoting healthier lifestyles across the region.

For nearly four decades, Boone County Health Center has been at the forefront of cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation, helping patients return to active, fulfilling lives through expert care, encouragement, and education.