Every year, over 200,000 people die from Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). It is
the third leading cause of death in the United States. What is scary about COPD is that it often
goes undetected. As a chronic and progressive condition, the early warning signs of shortness of
breath and fatigue are often dismissed as a just normal part of aging.

It is highly recommended that patients with COPD obtain care to help manage their illness. Why?
Because COPD is tricky to treat. While someone may live and be able to manage their COPD for
years, symptoms will eventually worsen. For example, a patient may develop pneumonia and
require additional medical assistance. There’s no cure for COPD.

COPD is often also very stressful for those with the disease and their family caregivers.
Individuals with COPD frequently experience difficult and uncomfortable symptoms that are
difficult hard for them to manage alone. They struggle coping with their debilitating shortness of
breath as well as their dependency on oxygen. They also face the stress of frequent
hospitalizations. In fact, over half of the patients with COPD are readmitted to the hospital within
twelve months.

It’s important to understand the symptoms of the disease, its progress, and when it’s time for
ViaQuest to help. COPD is a progressive disease and as the disease
progressesadvances, COPD patients and caregivers may needwant assistance with managing
the increasing needs of the patient.

ViaQuest can greatly improve quality of life for patients with COPD. Our specialized teams of
caregivers are uniquely trained in the management of COPDthis disease. By providing services to
control symptoms and reduce anxiety and stress, we can help make this difficult time easier and
help families facing COPD return to living as fully as possible.

Many patients coping with end stage COPD qualify for ViaQuest Hospice care. But nation-wide,
only 30% of those who qualify received care. These services work best when started early on,
allowing us the best chance to improve quality of life, reduce stress and help control symptoms.
Medicare covers hospice for most people, but both Medicaid and private insurance will also often
cover hospice care for qualified peoplepatients.

Another great benefit from our care is an increased level of support for the patient and their
caregivers. Nurses provide medical and personal care in the patient’s homes or wherever they
may be living. Our aides help with daily activities like bathing and grooming, even small meal
preparation. Volunteers provide companionship and give caregivers an often much needed break.
Emotional support is provided by our chaplains. Medication and medical equipment connected to
the disease is provided as well.

And what is often most comforting, in times of emergency, care is available 24 hours a day, 7
days a week, instead of another late night trip to the emergency room.
Managing COPD that is coupled with additional medical complications can be especially difficult
without professional medical assistance and support. To learn more about how we can help with
COPD call us at 855.289.1722.