Date of Award

6-17-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Medical Science (MMSc)

First Advisor

Brett Bade, MD

Abstract

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease is a progressive respiratory disease associated with decreased functional exercise capacity. Pulmonary rehabilitation is a safe, effective intervention that improves functional exercise capacity. However, pulmonary rehabilitation’s benefits wane after six months and utilization is low. Telehealth and maintenance pulmonary rehabilitation have the potential to address both challenges, though few studies are available. We propose a randomized controlled trial to assess how telehealth maintenance pulmonary rehabilitation affects the longevity of benefits for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease patients. Participants will be assigned to either the intervention group (receiving one year of weekly telehealth meetings with supervised exercise and education) or the control group (receiving standard care). The primary outcome is functional exercise capacity, as measured by the mean change from baseline in 6-minute walk test distance. This study could impact recommendations for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease self-maintenance, as well as demonstrate telehealth’s potential to improve accessibility and adherence.

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