Tele Pulmonology in COPD patients

Abstract

<b>Aims and objectives:</b> To evaluate the impact of multifaceted, home based COPD management program on hospital admissions. <b>Material and Methods:</b> Sample size: 100 COPD patients Study duration: 6months <b>Methodology:</b> Patients with a history of hospitalizations for respiratory failure, diagnosed with COPD and on Non-Invasive ventilatory therapy were enrolled in a home based telemedicine based Pulmonary rehabilitation programme. Patients received daily 30 minutes pulmonary rehabilitation in presence of pulmonologist in an online session. Two methods were used to understand reductions; first those at least 1 admission without totaling all events; second, total admissions calculated as a rate per patient per month. <b>Results:</b> 1. Our study population was male predominant with 60% males and 40% females 2. Most common age group in our study population was 55±5 (p≤0.001) 3. 10 patients had an episode of acute exacerbation at the time of study period requiring hospitalization 4.1 patient had dropped-out from the study during the study period 5. Patients in the program experienced 60% fewer admissions over prior history 6. There was a reduced trend with emergency hospital visits as only 18% study population had to visit ER with acute exacerbation 7. Also there was a less incidence of hospital visit as only 8% study population had to visit the treating physician with worsening of symptoms <b>Conclusion:</b> Home based COPD management programs led by Pulmonologist using a protocol based telemedicine with plan of care goals, can have a significant impacted on COPD admissions and quality of care metrics.