COPD CARE Service (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Coordinated Access to Reduce Exacerbations)

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) affects over 11 million Americans and is the third most frequent cause for readmission to hospitals within 30 days. Within five years of hospital discharge for a COPD exacerbation, there is a 44% risk for re-hospitalization and a 55% mortality rate. This research initiative leverages a directed, interprofessional team with the aim of effectively reducing 30-day readmission rates for patients with a recent COPD exacerbation while increasing access to care.

The COPD CARE (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease Coordinated Access to Reduce Exacerbations) service is an inter-professional transitions of care service focused on COPD management during the patient transition from hospital or emergency department to home.

The service is a formalized program for Veterans seen both in the Emergency Department and Hospital with a COPD exacerbation. Specific service information is available in the COPD CARE Service Overview Document, under the “Training Link.” Specific online modules can also be viewed under the “Training” link.

Additional information regarding the COPD CARE Service can be seen on our training website: Click Here to View

The COPD CARE Service design was recently accepted for publication in Federal Practitioner and has won two national awards as an innovative service within the Department of Veterans Affairs. For more information: Click Here.