Free resource to improve quality of life for COPD patients
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Lung Foundation Australia has launched a new online resource, My COPD Checklist, to help people living with the lung disease take more control of their lung health and enjoy better quality of life.
Lung Foundation Australia CEO Mark Brooke said the My COPD Checklist filled an important knowledge gap for people who often didn’t even realise there were actions they could take to improve their lung healthcare.
“We’re educating and empowering people living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to take an active role in managing their condition,” Brooke said.
“COPD, an umbrella term for progressive lung conditions including emphysema, chronic bronchitis and chronic asthma, is one of the leading causes of avoidable hospital admissions in Australia.
“And unfortunately what we hear over and again is that people have no idea there are a range of treatment options, resources and support services available to help you live well with COPD.
“While COPD currently has no cure, there are a whole range of things people can do to be more active, breathe more easily, keep out of hospital and improve their quality of life.”
Brooke said the My COPD Checklist assesses people’s current level of knowledge about their condition, possible gaps in their medical care plan and where they can make improvements.
“Each person is then offered a range of tailored solutions based on their current and future needs, ranging from self-directed activity to intensive Respiratory Care Nurse support,” he said.
“Lung Foundation Australia community care is available to them at every step.”
Symptoms of COPD can be managed if people:
- Stay active
- Know how to correctly use inhaled medicines
- Are up-to-date with vaccinations
- Learn ways to cope with breathlessness
Ritchelle is a Content Producer for Healthcare Channel, Australia’s premier resource of information for healthcare.
