Effectiveness of Home Automated Telemanagement in Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder

All chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases (COPDs) block air flow to the lungs, and the two most common forms, emphysema and chronic bronchitis, are the most common causes of respiratory failure. Previous research shows that if COPD patients know more about their disease and how to manage it themselves, they will improve their quality of life and reduce their need for urgent care. However, traditional methods of teaching COPD patients about their disease and self-management skills are expensive and require intensive work. A new, less expensive way of reaching a large group of people with this information is needed to help patients stay healthier and happier with their treatment. This study will create a computer program that can help people learn about their disease and how to manage it themselves. This study will then determine whether the computer program, called Home Automated Telemanagement (HAT), helps patients with COPD in managing their disease and following their treatment plans.