Living with COPD (Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease) and asthma can be challenging, but with the right strategies, you can lead a fulfilling life. Here are some tips to help you manage your daily routine:

1. Stay Active

Regular physical activity can improve your overall health and lung function. Start with gentle exercises like walking or yoga, and gradually increase your activity level. Always consult your doctor before starting any new exercise regimen.

2. Monitor Your Symptoms

Keep track of your symptoms daily. Use a journal or an app to note any changes in your breathing, energy levels, and medication use. This can help you and your healthcare provider adjust your treatment plan as needed.

3. Follow Your Medication Plan

Take your medications as prescribed by your doctor. This includes inhalers, pills, and any other treatments. Make sure you understand how and when to use each medication.

4. Avoid Triggers

Identify and avoid things that can worsen your symptoms, such as smoke, pollution, strong odors, and allergens. Keep your living space clean and well-ventilated.

5. Practice Breathing Techniques

Techniques like pursed-lip breathing and diaphragmatic breathing can help you manage shortness of breath. Practice these techniques regularly to improve your breathing efficiency.

6. Stay Hydrated

Drinking plenty of fluids can help keep your mucus thin and it is easier to clear your lungs. Aim for at least 8 glasses of water a day unless your doctor advises otherwise.

7. Get Vaccinated

Infections like the flu and pneumonia can be particularly dangerous for people with COPD and asthma. Make sure you stay up to date with your vaccinations.

8. Join a Support Group

Connecting with others who have similar conditions can provide emotional support and practical advice. Look for local or online support groups for people with COPD and asthma.

Personalized Care with a Pulmonary Disease Navigator

A Pulmonary Disease Navigator (PDN) can give you more personalized care tailored to your needs on lung disease management. Our goal is to help you avoid hospital admissions. In Utah, you may be eligible for extra help through a Pulmonary Disease Navigator.

We can guide you and answer questions about:

• Lung disease
• Oxygen use
• Respiratory medications
• How to avoid flare-ups
• Personalized Action Plans

Ask your doctor for a referral to see a Pulmonary Disease Navigator, or contact any of these locations:

• Utah Valley: 801-357-8165
• McKay Dee: 801-648-2362
• LDS Hospital: 801-408-5415
• Murray (IMC): 801-507-4087
• St. George: 435-251-1651

Pulmonary Disease Navigators can also assist in enrolling patients for the iCARE study to help manage your lung disease from home.

Research and Study Participation Opportunities

Intermountain COPD and Adult Asthma Remote Evaluation (iCare) is a research study for adult patients (18+) with COPD or adult asthma.

What is iCare?

iCare is a research study to assist adult COPD and asthma patients get personalized care from expert pulmonary and respiratory providers in a timely manner.

How does iCare work?

Using remote monitoring devices connected to an artificial intelligence (AI) platform, patients get real-time recommendations to manage symptoms. The program uses Bluetooth technology and motivation/behavior “nudge” theory to communicate directly to your smartphone. Participants in the study will have additional support from a Pulmonary Disease Navigator. The initial evaluation will be in person with an iCare navigator on-site at participating hospitals.

Where is iCare available?

Initial launch sites for the iCare study are:

• Intermountain Medical Center in Murray
• LDS Hospital in Salt Lake City
• Utah Valley Hospital
• St George Regional Hospital
• McKay-Dee Hospital

How do I enroll in the iCare study?

To enroll in iCare, you will need a referral from your physician or advance practice provider (APP). A PDN will manage your care at a Respiratory Outpatient Clinic (ROC) or hospital site in coordination with your physician/APP whether you enroll in the iCARE program or not. If you choose to enroll in iCare, regular updates will be sent to your referring provider.

How much does it cost to enroll in the iCare study?

You will not be charged for monitoring devices, daily monitoring, or calls to or from your PDN. Most insurances will cover the evaluation cost; however, you may be billed for the initial evaluation. If you need standard care treatments such as medications, mucous removal techniques, blood work, etc., these are not covered by the study. Your insurance will be billed as usual.

Next step:

Contact your physician to see if you are eligible for referral into the iCare program. Then, you will meet with your Pulmonary Disease Navigator at a participating hospital or Respiratory Outpatient Clinic to confirm enrollment. Another way to get started is to contact any of these locations:

• Utah Valley: 801-357-8165
• McKay Dee: 801-648-2362
• LDS Hospital: 801-408-5415
• Murray (IMC): 801-507-4087
• St. George: 435-251-1651

Living with COPD and asthma doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With the right strategies and support, you can manage your symptoms and enjoy a better quality of life.

For Providers:

If you are a physician or advance practice provider, you can rely on Pulmonary Disease Navigators to help you take care of your patients and give them personalized care. Including simplified access to participate in the iCare Study.

The referral process can be completed in iCentra or via FAX. CLICK HERE FOR A PDF order form.