A national study of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
The Healthcare Commission has carried out a national study of the care and treatment available for people with COPD in England. The study is part of a wider programme of work, which focuses on promoting improvement in services for people with long term conditions or chronic disease.
COPD is the term now used to describe a range of chronic chest conditions, including chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It is an incurable long term condition, which is diagnosed in at least 900,000 people in the UK and places a significant burden on the NHS.
The following report presents the detailed findings of our national study of COPD. It provides an overview of the experiences of people with COPD and relevant Government policy and guidelines. It aims to improve understanding and awareness of COPD among healthcare professionals and the public, and highlight the impact of this condition on the NHS.
The report provides recommendations for the Department of Health and those responsible for providing healthcare services locally. It also provides details of further activities by the Healthcare Commission in relation to the care and treatment of people with COPD and other long term conditions.
The findings of this study will not feed into the annual performance rating for trusts for 2005/2006.
Published: June 28th 2006:
Clearing the air: A national study of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (pdf 800kb)
Further information
If you would like further information please email:
beverley.fitzsimons@healthcarecommission.org.uk
ann.goodridge@healthcarecommission.org.uk
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