Lifestyle Changes

The Wellness Program at the Robert C. Byrd Health Sciences Center operates the Dean Ornish Program and the Dean Ornish Advantage Program to assist patients in making lifestyle changes with lasting results.

Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease

This ambitious 12-week program combines low-fat vegetarian eating, moderate aerobic exercise, stress management, and group support to significantly improve the cardiovascular status of highly motivated patients.

The Ornish Program is the first program scientifically proven to reverse heart disease. The program treats coronary artery disease with alternatives to conventional treatments that use invasive procedures such as angioplasty and arterial bypass surgery.

The objectives of the program are:

Reduction of blockages in coronary arteries
Improvement of blood flow through the heart
Reduction in chest pain (angina)
Reduction in serum cholesterol levels
Improvement in exercise capacity, sense of well-being, and satisfaction with life

A new session begins every three months. Call 304-293-2520 to assess your eligibility.

Dean Ornish Advantage Program for Reversing Heart Disease

Those who do not qualify for the Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease can participate in the Dean Ornish Advantage Program for Reversing Heart Disease.

This six-week educational program uses the concepts of the Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease and includes a dietary plan that may be liberalized based on the participant's cardiovascular risk and goals.

Each two-hour session, which is delivered by Ornish Advantage Program staff, includes lectures and skill-developing activities. The home portion of this program is designed to strengthen the participant's commitment.

Lipids, blood pressure, weight, and body composition/BMI are measured both at the beginning of the program and again at 12 weeks to assess lifestyle changes.

Insurance companies providing coverage include:

Mountain State Blue Cross Blue Shield
PEIA (Public Employees Insurance Agency)
Highmark Blue Cross Blue Shield

Without insurance, the total cost of the Dean Ornish Advantage Program is $240, which includes all testing.

Click to learn more about the Ornish programs.

WVU Healthcare

Heart Institute

Lifestyle Changes

Dean Ornish Program for Reversing Heart Disease