Enhancing COPD management through a structured follow-up checklist to reduce exacerbations

Background: Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition marked by exacerbations that increase morbidity, mortality, and healthcare costs. The Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) 2023 guidelines introduced a follow-up checklist to optimize patient management and reduce exacerbations.

Objective: This study evaluates the efficacy of a COPD follow-up checklist in reducing exacerbation rates and improving patient outcomes through targeted interventions. 

Methods: A prospective study was conducted at a Tertiary care hospital’s Respiratory Medicine OPD from February 15, 2023, to July 15, 2023, involving 30 COPD patients. Data were collected using the GOLD 2023 follow-up checklist during in-person visits, with a subsequent 3-month follow-up to assess exacerbations and symptom changes. Parameters included mMRC grades, CAT scores, GOLD ABE categories, inhalation therapy, and self-management behaviors.

Results: The cohort (93.3% male, mean age 55 years) showed significant improvements after 3 months: mMRC grade 2 reduced from 17 to 15 patients, CAT scores >10 decreased from 30 to 21, and GOLD category A patients increased from 0 to 9. No exacerbations were reported during follow-up. Smoking cessation rates improved (11 to 18 patients), and medication adherence rose from 9 to 20 patients. 

Conclusion: The COPD follow-up checklist effectively reduces exacerbations and enhances symptom control through structured monitoring and interventions. Its adaptability for in-person, phone, or virtual follow-ups supports broader implementation in clinical practice