Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema, is a chronic lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. The disease is increasingly common, affecting millions of Americans, and is among the leading causes of death in the U.S. The good news is COPD is often preventable and treatable.

This COPD Educator Course will include practical information healthcare professionals can use in their work with patients who have a COPD diagnosis. It is designed to help prepare professionals to provide guidelines-based care as well as build knowledge and skills in treating, managing, and educating individuals living with COPD.

Upon completion of this course, the participant will be able to:

• Recognize that COPD is preventable and treatable and increasing in prevalence.
• Discuss and understand the pathophysiology of COPD.
• Understand key components of spirometry and its role in diagnosis and management.
• Identify medications used in COPD management and differentiate between action pathways of common COPD pharmacological therapies, dosing regimens.
• Observe and practice correct inhaler device technique.
• Understand principles for selection of appropriate oxygen therapy devices.
• Utilize shared decision making and engagement strategies to help patients improve medication adherence, reduce health care burden, and be active in their healthcare.
• Discuss prevention strategies, including tobacco cessation programs.
• Explain how pulmonary rehabilitation and self-management skills can improve quality of life for a COPD patient.
• Review risk factors and discuss interventions to reduce readmissions.
• Understand the role of palliative care and hospice for COPD patients.

The COPD Educator Course registration fee is $300. Included in registration, participant receive:

• Detailed training following GOLD guidelines
• Digital downloadable course materials (course handbook, resources, educational handouts)
• Access for 6 months to complete the course and review or download content
• 14.0 continuing education credits for a variety of healthcare professionals

The COPD Educator course does not provide a credential or certification. There is not a nationally recognized COPD Educator credentialing exam or COPD Educator Certification. The completion of this course does not result in a credential, designation, or accredited certification. This course is a comprehensive training providing 14 hours of continuing education to healthcare professionals. All registrants who participate in the live stream event will receive a Certificate of Completion as proof of attendance.

Continuing Education Statements:

This activity has been planned and implemented in accordance with the accreditation requirements and policies of the New Mexico Medical Society (NMMS) through the joint providership of the Greater Albuquerque Medical Association and The American Lung Association. The Greater Albuquerque Medical Association is accredited by the NMMS to provide continuing medical education for physicians. GAMA designates this enduring material activity for a maximum of 14.0 hours AMA PRA Category 1 Credit(s)™. Physicians should claim only the credit commensurate with the extent of their participation in the activity.

This program has been approved for up to 14.0 contact hours Continuing Respiratory Care Education (CRCE) credit by the American Association for Respiratory Care, 9425 N MacArthur Blvd, Ste 100, Irving TX 75063.

Select “Single Purchase” to register and access the course. Select “Group Purchase” to pay for multiple seats and get access codes to pass along to participants. Select “Redeem Access Code” to register and enter the access code provided to you.