An Evaluation of Web Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation

An Evaluation of Web Based Pulmonary Rehabilitation- Pilot Study

The purpose of this pilot study is to compare a six week web-based pulmonary rehabilitation programme with traditional hospital-based pulmonary rehabilitation classes for people affected by COPD.

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a term used to describe a number of lung conditions characterised by irreversible damage to the airways causing airflow obstruction. Pulmonary Rehabilitation (PR) is a broad programme that helps improve the health and well-being of people with breathing difficulties, most commonly COPD. Participation in PR leads to improvements in exercise tolerance and functional ability, as well as a reducing breathlessness in everyday activities. It is traditionally an outpatient programme based in a hospital or community setting run by a multidisciplinary team, and usually lead by physiotherapy and nursing staff. Typically it includes a physical exercise programme, and advice and education on managing a chronic lung condition. The purpose of this pilot study is to compare a six week web-based pulmonary rehabilitation programme with traditional hospital-based pulmonary rehabilitation classes for people affected by COPD.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A diagnosis of COPD
• Suitable for participation in the NHS Lanarkshire PR programme
• Independently mobile
• Access to the internet in their own home

Exclusion Criteria:

• Unstable cardiac or other health problems which may prevent participation in study
• Under the age of 18
• Pregnant
• Unable to read/understand English
• Unwilling to be randomised into PR delivered via the hospital or internet