In this episode:

• Emphasise pulmonary rehabilitation in the routine management of COPD, as it improves exercise capacity, reduces exacerbations, and enhances quality of life
• Prioritise vaccinations and ensure patients with COPD are up to date with critical vaccinations, including influenza, pneumococcal, and COVID-19, as these significantly reduce the risk of exacerbations and hospitalisations
• Focus on self-management and action plans, empowering patients with COPD to monitor symptoms and manage exacerbations early
• Involve a multidisciplinary team in COPD care, including physiotherapists, pharmacists, and social workers. Regularly check inhaler technique and ensure patients have access to the necessary resources for comprehensive care

Expert: Prof Ian Yang, Director of Thoracic Medicine

Host: Dr David Lim, GP and Medical Educator

Total time: 32 mins

This Healthed educational segment is supported by Lung Foundation Australia. The views, information or opinions expressed by the experts are entirely their own and do not necessarily represent those of Lung Foundation Australia

Recommended resource:

• Stepwise management of stable COPD (fact sheet) | Lung Foundation Australia
• COPD-X Handbook (booklet) | Lung Foundation Australia
• COPD guidelines: The COPD-X plan | Lung Foundation Australia
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease clinical care standard | Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care