On the Line for Lung Health: Telephone Training Helps COPD Patients Perfect Inhaler Use

Researchers from Humana Healthcare Research and University of Chicago Medicine (UChicago Medicine) found that Humana members with COPD and low medication adherence who participated in the program in 2020 significantly improved their inhaler technique after receiving guidance over the phone from pharmacists.

The study 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 approaches for individuals who may be more likely to struggle with proper inhaler use.

Additional findings include:

• Of the nearly 2000 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.

“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.”

UChicago Medicine physician-researcher Valerie Press, MD, MPH, notes that “when used correctly, respiratory inhalers deliver the cornerstone of treatments to prevent and reduce COPD symptoms; however, inhaler misuse is pervasive. Guidelines recommend inhaler technique assessment and teaching at all healthcare encounters to mitigate this misuse. This insurance-based program extends the reach of this critical education to provide necessary medication education.”

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

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