Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)
Overview
The program provides resources for clinicians as they follow evidence based clinical practice guidelines in the assessment and treatment of patients with COPD. The 2009 Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) Practice Guidelines are used at the basis of the program. Spirometry for diagnosis and staging to determine medication therapy are encouraged and recommendations are summarized here. A pharmacist and Respiratory therapist are available for practice consult.
In addition, case managers can work intensively with high risk COPD patients to promote self management and adherence to recommended therapies. Case managers address the importance of using daily controller medicines, the use of spacers, nebulizers, and oxygen as ordered by their physician, smoking cessation, and the recognition of warning signs of worsening symptoms.
Tools
Pulmonary Rehabilitation Services