OVGH Pulmonary Health Department Overview

Living with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, or COPD, can be a challenge. Often, people with this debilitating illness stop doing the things that they enjoy, like shopping or spending time in social settings.

The Pulmonary Health Center, located at Ohio Valley General Hospital, is designed to help people with COPD cope with the disease while improving quality of life.

"It is important to establish what the patient expects to gain from the program," said Maureen Heilmann, director of Cardiorespiratory Services. "While we may have lofty goals for them, they may simply want to return to the things they once enjoyed, like fishing or bowling.

"We had one patient whose only goal was to go Christmas shopping. Another man just wanted to be able to go back to church," she added. "The team of occupational, physical and respiratory therapists develop a plan to help the patient achieve that goal."

Occupational physical therapist, Danielle Krek, monitors Darla Chiodo's breathing at Ohio Valley's pulmonary rehabilitation department.

The Center's respiratory therapist conducts an assessment of the patient, and is responsible for helping with medical issues that are related to lung condition and for developing optimal techniques to build lung function. The physical therapist works with the patient to build physical strength and endurance, while the occupational therapist helps the patient with energy conservation and work simplification techniques.

"Often we're helping patients make lifestyle changes as well as develop coping strategies," said Heilmann. "Not only is COPD a chronic, debilitating illness, but patients with COPD often have a number of co-morbid problems, including a high rate of diabetes and a high rate of congestive heart failure."

COPD is the fourth-leading cause of death in the U.S., and is most often caused by smoking. Heredity and working in certain occupations can also be contributing factors to the disease. The Center also works with patients who need rehabilitation prior to, and following, lung transplants.

"While patients are on the waiting list for lung transplants, we help get them in the most optimal condition before they undergo surgery," said Heilmann. "After surgery, the team works to get the patient's new lungs in sync with their physical condition."

According to Patient Coordinator Debbie Felser, a large part of the Center's work is motivating patients to continue with treatment.

"It's a commitment," she explained. "People are already not feeling well when they come here, and the program itself is eight to 12 weeks, with most people participating two to three times a week.

"There is a supportive social environment here where patients can meet others going through the same thing, and many develop friendships," she added. "Some patients are also afraid to do these exercises at home because they are alone, and may have difficulty breathing. Here, they get individualized, one-on-one therapy every time they come."

The Pulmonary Health Center also provides much-needed education to patients. "One of the most important things that people gain is an understanding of how to take their medications properly," said Heilmann.

"We also provide early intervention education, so that people recognize the symptoms of acute exacerbation of COPD, and know what to do," she added.

Center staff also teaches patients about the use of oxygen, and the different types of equipment available to allow them more portability.

For more information on the Pulmonary Health Center, call (412) 777-6470 or visit www.ohiovalleyhospital.org.