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Research Area: Health  | Status:  Ongoing | Led By: Student-led

The Challenge

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) affects roughly 2.5 million Canadians; however, only around 11,000 have ready access to a clinic for treatment. This is because most COPD clinics are located in hospitals, which are not always accessible—particularly for rural communities and older or at-risk populations. Treatment for COPD patients is a significant concern for New Brunswick. One in five seniors in the province currently suffer from COPD, and that number may continue to grow as seniors occupy an increasing proportion of the New Brunswick population. To help manage this public health issue, treatment and education must extend beyond the walls of hospitals and clinics and go into communities to provide access to COPD rehabilitation and supportive care.

The Solution

In 2018, Â鶹ԼÅÄ launched an innovative student-led pulmonary rehabilitation (PR) clinic with support from local partners UNB Saint John, DalMed, and Horizon Health. The pilot program targeted people living with moderate to severe COPD and related disorders. The clinic was set up at the Allied Health Education Centre—a facility separated from the Saint John Regional Hospital, providing easier access for patients.

The eight-week pilot saw impressive results: patients reported improved quality of life and wellbeing. Many could walk farther with fewer symptoms than prior to the student-directed interventions. Building on this momentum, the project expanded to four more clinics, with further provincial expansion anticipated in the future.

The success of the PR pilot program has inspired other organizations to consider how they could replicate this model in their communities, bringing accessible COPD treatment to even more Canadians.

About the Collaboration

Students from Â鶹ԼÅÄ’s Respiratory Therapy, Pharmacy Technician, and Practical Nurse programs, as well as the University of New Brunswick’s Bachelor of Nursing program, work in real-world settings alongside licenced healthcare workers. The experience of collaborating with other students and healthcare workers provides practical skills that will benefit future graduates throughout their careers. For patients, the benefits of this novel and innovative approach to care speak for themselves.

Project Partners/Funders