Description:
The Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) Program at the Happy Valley Family Health Team (HVFHT) was developed to improve the health of patients living with COPD.
The goal of the program is to help patients with COPD remain as active and healthy as possible, managing their symptoms to ensure optimal quality of life.
Certified Respiratory Educators (NPs and RTs) provide a comprehensive assessment, education on symptom management, and education about COPD medications/inhalers.
At these appointments you and your family will have an opportunity to ask questions about COPD, its management, and how to know when to seek more urgent medical attention.
You will receive one on one support and education with the Certified Respiratory Educator (CRE) with topics including:
- How to control your symptoms
- Avoid triggers that make your breathing worse
- How to use your puffers correctly
- Assistance with medication adjustment to maximize control of breathing symptoms
- Development of an action plan
- A breathing test (spirometry) may be completed
Helpful Resources:
The Lung Health Foundation | lunghealth.ca
The Lung Health Foundation and its certified respiratory educators are available every weekday from 8:30am to 4:30pm to answer your questions about your lung health as well as provide smoking cessation support. If you need to know more about asthma, COPD, or lung cancer Reach out to the Lung Foundation at 1-888-344-LUNG (5864).
Learn How to Use An Inhaler | lunghealth.ca
Prerequisites:
- Physician Referral: Yes
- Patient of Happy Valley Family Health Team: Yes
- Appointment Required: Yes
- Also: Clinical diagnosis of COPD required
Registration:
If you have been diagnosed with COPD, please speak with your Family Doctor to discuss your individualized care plan and whether or not you would benefit from a referral to our team of Certified Respiratory Educators.
