Study finds remote learning improves respiratory care for COPD patients

LOUISVILLE, Ky. – Researchers from Humana Healthcare Research and University of Chicago Medicine found that Medicare Advantage members with COPD and low medication adherence significantly improved their inhaler technique after receiving guidance over the phone from pharmacists.

Researchers say the study, recently published in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Journal of the COPD Foundation, points to the promise of remote, pharmacist-led inhaler training as a way to help people with COPD better manage their condition and emphasizes the importance of continued research to develop tailored approves for individuals who may be more likely to struggle with proper inhaler use.

“Using a COPD inhaler can be challenging because it requires precise timing and coordination, as well as understanding the correct steps to ensure the medication is delivered effectively to the lungs,” said Humana’s Emily Thomas, a pharmacist who served as the program leader. “A phone-based education program offers a convenient way for patients to receive personalized guidance and support, helping them improve their inhaler technique and better manage their condition.”

Additional findings include:

• Of the nearly 2,000 participants included in the study nearly 40% were using their inhalers incorrectly at the start of the program, but after the first phone education session, misuse dropped to less than 7%, a dramatic improvement.
• Positive outcomes were observed across all types of inhaler devices and patient subgroups with ongoing, multi-session education playing a key role in helping patients maintain correct inhaler use over time.

As a subsidiary of Humana, Humana Healthcare Research collaborates with leading academic and industry partners to advance and shape innovation in care delivery and health policy for better outcomes.

Access the full study on the Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases: Journal of the COPD Foundation website here.