LUNG CONDITIONS

specializing in working with people with
asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema and COPD

Collaborate with a compassionate and helpful coach

...typically in weekly sessions over the phone or online, to make headway on:

using inhalers effectively
taking medication on schedule
preparing how to identify and respond to exacerbations
understanding your condition and becoming more aware of symptoms associated with it
learning complementary skills to breathe more comfortably
meal planning and making wise food choices
making a personalized plan to increase physical activity
coordinating care with providers
smoking cessation
decision-making support

A Lung Health Coach's Appropriate Scope

In 2017, the University of California San Francisco, through its UCSF Center for Excellence in Primary Care, published the Aides in Respiration (AIR) Health Coaching Study that proposed and verified the best role for health coaches working with people with lung conditions. Here's what they came up with for the medical environment, where a team model is used.

A coach in private practice, who may not have a relationship with the client's medical team or up-to-date information about their true condition, may likely evaluate that not all these activities are appropriate for the circumstances. If that is the case, we CAN focus on options and steps to get identified needs met elsewhere with appropriate licensed health practitioners.

Assistance That Health Coaches May Offer

Review medications and how to take them (per instructions on the bottle, or doctor's written instructions provided)
Share information about lung disease in general.
Make an emergency breathing plan.
Ask questions and list client's experience of lung disease.
Come to visits with doctor and meet with clients alone to help support self-management of condition.
Make personalized plans to be more active, manage stress or meet other personal goals.
Meet with client at medical office or at home, in addition to the phone or online.
Remind clients of appointments.
Help identify resources to meet social needs.