Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a disease that could destabilize patients and even their caregivers if not handled promptly and adequately. Instituting a multidisciplinary approach including self-management tactics has proven to be beneficial for patients. Tools and resources are being made available to patients and their caregivers and this can improve the quality of life and disease outcome.
Lung X-Ray
Resources
- Being a newly diagnosed or even already diagnosed COPD patient, you need enough information about your condition. Websites like gilmorehealth.com give the needed educational resources to provide in-depth information including current trends in management.
- The website of the American Lung Association is a relevant online resource being used these days to keep up with current trends in the management of COPD. It has educational resources and research information including ongoing clinical trials that patients can enroll in. They provide funding for research that probes into the unknown looking for ways to better the lives of COPD patients and the population at large. They also support laws and policies that improve lung health, encourage smoking cessation, and provide an environment with clean air. In addition, they offer free nationwide support group memberships.
- The Patient Access Network (PAN) Foundation is a financial resource that renders financial assistance to patients with chronic and debilitating diseases like COPD. Patients who are not able to handle the out-of-pocket expenses that come with the care are supported through this program. This makes healthcare accessible and affordable.
- RxAssist is a site where patients can seek financial aid to buy certain medications through their manufacturers. This site provides information about free and low-cost medication programs and ways to manage costs. In addition to providing a thorough database of these patient assistance programs, RxAssist also provides news, articles, and useful tools to help patients and medical professionals find the information they require.
- COPD360social is an online support group program offered by the COPD Foundation. As a member, you can get help, ask questions, find out what’s going on in your community, take part in research, talk to experts, get educational materials, and discover how to take action.
- U.S. COPD Coalition is another helpful resource site where members can access news and information about COPD. It consists of patients, healthcare agencies, and government organizations.
- Learn More Breathe Better is a national health education program spear-headed by the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute (NHLBI). The program seeks to increase awareness and improve the understanding of lung diseases like COPD. The program raises the perception of the warning signs and symptoms of lung conditions and diseases to promote early diagnosis and treatment. It also encourages the use, application, and acceptance of evidence-based medicine.
Conclusion
If left untreated, COPD is a crippling illness that can significantly lower quality of life. Numerous institutions and organizations have provided patients and their caregivers with a range of tools and resources. Thus far, this has improved patients’ quality of life and helped to improve the course of their illnesses.
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