When Eric Franklin had triple bypass surgery in October, he knew how important rehab would be in his recovery. What he didn’t know was how we was going to pay for it.
Fortunately, for individuals like Franklin, Skaggs Foundation provides financial assistance to help cover co-pays and fees qualifying patients could not otherwise afford. Last year, through a Skaggs Legacy Endowment grant, the foundation provided patient scholarships to 123 individuals for cardiopulmonary rehab services in Branson and Branson West.
“Being a retired senior, I really appreciate the financial help,” Franklin said. “I am so relieved to have this cost taken care of. I feel a difference compared to where I started.”
Franklin is attending rehab three times a week for 12 weeks at CoxHealth Cardiac and Pulmonary Rehab Branson.
“Cardiac Rehab has health benefits with a 25 percent reduction in all-cause mortality rates,” explained Rehab Manager Hollie Holderfield. “Patients gain knowledge about their cardiac disease and how to manage their risk factors. Rehab improves quality of daily living and quality of life. Rehab also increases the ability to return to work or engage in leisure activities.”
Without the financial assistance from Skaggs Foundation, many patients would not be able to participate.
“Skaggs Foundation removes this barrier so patients are able to have access to cardiopulmonary rehab,” she said.
For Franklin, he’s looking forward to getting back to living a full life.
“I can tell that the rehab is increasing my stamina and my ability to go further,” he said. “I’m looking forward to being able to be active with my grandkids and be able to pick them up.”
For more information about Skaggs Legacy Endowment grant opportunities, visit SkaggsFoundation.org.
