AAH supports study of COPD patients

WASHINGTON - AAHomecare is throwing its weight behind a study to determine the impact of education on compliance and outcomes for COPD patients.

The association says it will help recruit HME providers and patients to participate in the Peer-Led O2 Infoline for Patient and Caregivers study, which is funded by the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute.

“As the national association for HME providers, AAHomecare is well positioned to help the PELICAN study recruit HME providers and their patients,” stated Tom Ryan, president and CEO, in a press release. “This study will go a long way toward quantifying the impact of peer coaching on adherence and self-management, leading to better patient outcomes.”

Participating providers will conduct four home visits to collect information about the oxygen equipment in the patient's home and his or her oxygen prescription.

To participate, patients must be at least 18 years old, have COPD, be prescribed for 24-hour oxygen use, be expected to live at least six months and speak English or Spanish.

AAHomecare says providers and patients will be compensated for their participation.

The study is being conducted by researchers at the University of Illinois Breathe Chicago Center, National Jewish Health, LA BioMed, AlphaNet and the COPD Foundation.

Partner organizations include Apria Healthcare, Fitzsimmons Home Medical Equipment, American Association for Respiratory Care, Invacare, Klingensmith Healthcare, Wellspan Medical Equipment, Orbit Medical, Rush University Medical Center, Sturdy Memorial Hospital and Trego County Lemke Memorial Hospital.