COPD

Educational Brochure: Improving COPD Care Through Technology, Coordination, and Community Support

If you or a loved one is managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and facing challenges with smoking cessation, this brochure is designed to provide helpful information about resources, care coordination, and innovative technologies to improve your quality of life.

R to Better Breathing: A Guide to Enhancing COPD Care

Why quit smoking?

Smoking is the leading cause of COPD. Quitting smoking is the most effective step to slow disease progression and improve lung function.

COPD is a chronic lung condition that makes it difficult to breathe. Symptoms include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath, often caused by long-term exposure to irritants like tobacco smoke.

• What is COPD?

Understanding COPD and Smoking Cessation

RPM uses devices to monitor your health from home, tracking key indicators like oxygen levels, heart rate, and symptoms. Benefits: • Real-time alerts to your care team for early intervention. • Reduced hospital visits and improved safety. • Convenience for patients with mobility challenges.

1.) Remote Patient Monitoring (RPM):

How Technology Can Help

Mobile apps and wearable devices offer reminders, progress tracking, and behavioral support to help you quit smoking. Did You Know? RPM can reduce COPD hospitalizations by up to 40% with timely interventions (Jeong et al., 2020).

2. Smoking Cessation Apps and Wearables:

How Technology Can Help, CONT.

• Improved communication among providers. • Tailored treatment plans addressing all your needs. • Access to comprehensive support for physical and emotional well-being.

• Primary Care Provider: Oversees overall health. • Pulmonologist: Specializes in lung conditions. • Respiratory Therapist: Offers breathing exercises and oxygen therapy. • Smoking Cessation Counselor: Provides support and resources to quit smoking.

Benefits of Team-Based Care:

Your Care Team May Include:

What is Care Coordination?Care coordination involves a team of healthcare professionals working together to create a personalized care plan for you.

Coordinated Care for Better Outcomes

• American Lung Association: Offers educational programs, support groups, and online tools for managing COPD and quitting smoking. • Local Smoking Cessation Programs: Check with your healthcare provider for programs near you. • Community Health Centers: Many centers offer affordable care and support services. Pro Tip: Join a COPD support group to connect with others who understand your challenges and can share coping strategies.

Community Resources to Support Your Journey

Local and online resources can provide additional assistance for managing COPD and quitting smoking. Here are a few examples:

1. Talk to Your Healthcare Provider: Ask about Remote Patient Monitoring and smoking cessation resources tailored to your needs. 2. Explore Technology Options: Download a smoking cessation app or inquire about wearable devices to track your health. 3. Engage Your Care Team: Ensure all your providers communicate regularly to keep your care plan consistent and effective. 4. Leverage Community Resources: Visit local organizations and online platforms to access additional support.

How to Get Started

Contact your care team for more information on available resources and next steps.

Breathe Easier with Better Support Your journey to better health starts here. Together, we can make a difference.

Questions? Reach Out!

With the right tools, support, and care team, you can improve your quality of life and take charge of your health. Speak with your provider to explore these options and create a plan that works for you.

Take Control of Your COPD Management Today!

thank you!