Use of Respiratory Therapists (RTs) to Improve Outcomes and Quality of Life in Patients With COPD

A Prospective Randomized Controlled Trial to Evaluate the Use of Respiratory Therapists (RTs) to Improve Outcomes and Quality of Life in Patients Diagnosed With COPD

Evaluate subjects in an prospective randomized controlled trial in which subjects will be administered scientifically validated questionnaires to determine the effect of the education and case management by Respiratory Therapists (RTs) on improvements in: health outcomes and quality of life as primary endpoints

Utilize: Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire (CRQ)

The secondary endpoints will be: Rate of exacerbation's, Health care utilization (emergency room encounters, hospital admissions)

Evaluate subjects in an prospective randomized controlled trial in which subjects will be screened and administered scientifically validated questionnaires at study entry and during the observation period at specified intervals to determine the effect of the education and case management by Respiratory Therapists (RTs) on improvements in health outcomes and quality of life as primary endpoints, utilizing the Chronic Respiratory Disease Questionnaire (CRQ). The secondary endpoints will be rate of exacerbation's and health care utilization (emergency room encounters, hospital admissions).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of COPD
• Cognitive ability to retain education and training
• Resides in a stable residence or home, apartment
• Managed by primary care physician (family practice)

Exclusion Criteria:

• Lacks cognitive ability to retain education and training
• Not managed by primary care physician (family practice)
• No stable residence or is homeless