Strategies of Disease Management: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the Primary Care Setting

Authors

Christy L. Godbee-Awe, University of LynchburgFollow

Specialty

Family Medicine

Advisor

Dr. Thomas Colletti

Abstract

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is currently the fourth leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, resulting in an increased burden on healthcare systems. The goal of COPD treatment is to provide symptom relief, prevent exacerbation, and to limit disease progression. Patients are often overwhelmed with the diagnosis of this chronic disease and treatment plans must be developed and tailored to the patient to provide optimal disease control. Focus on disease management in the Primary Care setting must encompass physical, psychological, and social well-being in order to be effective.

Diagnosis of chronic disease is common in Primary Care, due to the prevalence of COPD it is imperative that the Primary Care Clinician (PCC) remain aware of the most current diagnostic and treatment recommendations. Attention must also be given to the most important aspect of disease management, the patient. Patient adherence with medications, health literacy,¹social support, comorbidities and changes in habits-such as smoking cessation, are critical to successful management of COPD.

Recommended Citation

Godbee-Awe CL. Strategies of Disease Management: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the Primary Care Setting. University of Lynchburg DMSc Doctoral Project Assignment Repository. 2021; 4(1).