Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a chronic disease that can be prevented. Your primary caregiver may refer you to the clinic to understand how to minimize your risk of developing the disease or to learn how to manage the condition you have.
To see the COPD Clinic, your physician needs to fill out a referral form.
Types of Care in the COPD Clinic
Our goal is to work with you and your health care providers to reduce and control your symptoms. Our health care team has the consumer information, equipment, knowledge, and time to deliver a program to help you manage your disease. COPD symptoms may worsen if not treated.
The Centre for Respiratory Health – COPD provides one-stop coordinated care. At the COPD Clinic, you will:
- Consult with a respirologist to assess your diagnosis and disease severity
- Get information to help you control and reduce your symptoms
- Learn how to use medications and inhalers properly
- Learn techniques to help with daily living
On your first visit, you will have diagnostic tests and consultations to determine the best treatment strategy. A team led by a respirologist and a registered respiratory therapist (RRT) will provide you and your family with a personalized disease management plan and appropriate supports.
Exercise Programs for COPD/chronic Respiratory Diseases
We have a unique partnership with Cornell Community Centre, allowing us to deliver exercise programs to patients with COPD or chronic respiratory disease.
Better Living Health Program (OHIP-funded)
Through a partnership between the City of Markham and Oak Valley Health, there are now two exercise programs available for people with COPD/chronic respiratory disease. These programs run for 12 weeks.
- Tuesdays and Thursdays from 2:15 – 3:15 p.m.
- Saturdays from 11:45 a.m. – 12:50 p.m.
Maintenance Programs (some cost)
For those requiring more of a challenge or who have completed the Better Living Health Program, we have maintenance programs available:
- Tuesday from 1:15 – 2:15 p.m.
- Thursdays from 1 – 2 p.m.
Virtual Monitoring Services
ViMos is an innovative, patient-centered self-management program that provides remote monitoring and clinical support for patients with chronic conditions, such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and congestive heart failure. The goal is to reduce hospital readmissions and empower patients by providing them with the tools and support to self-manage their health from the comfort of their own home.
