Penn State Health St. Joseph has introduced the Chronic Disease Wellness Hour, a monthly educational and emotional support group for patients living with chronic diseases, such as COPD, diabetes, heart failure and stroke.

The group meets the third Thursday of every month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Penn State Health St. Joseph Spring Ridge, 2607 Keiser Blvd., Wyomissing. A second group meets the last Wednesday of every month from 1 to 2 p.m. at St. Joseph’s Downtown Campus, 145 N. 6th Street, Reading, where it is offered in both English and Spanish.

The meetings offer a safe environment with monthly activities, shared experiences and informational talks from varied health care professionals, according to Morgan Boyer, clinical disease coordinator.

“Chronic diseases play into exacerbations that force patients to seek emergency services that could be prevented,” she says. “If they have a person who keeps them on point, someone to talk to for support, they have a greater likelihood of success. The goal is for the client to own their disease.”

The groups meet in large rooms that allow for proper social distancing. Participants are screened for COVID-19 and must wear masks. A Zoom option is available. For more information or to register, call 610-378-2030.