Islanders invited to COPD conversations

Islanders living with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) can help shape future COPD programming and services. 

Health PEI will hold four focus-group conversations across the province from 1 to 3 p.m. on:
•    Thursday, July 12 (Queens County);
•    Friday, July 13 (East Prince);
•    Tuesday, July 17 (Kings County); and
•    Friday, July 20 (West Prince).

Please pre-register by calling the Provincial COPD Program toll-free at 1-888-854-7244.

“Our health care system continues to take steps forward in helping Islanders manage their chronic disease, such as COPD, and improve their quality of life,” Health and Wellness Minister Robert Mitchell said. “Hearing from Islanders about their experiences is important to understanding how we can continue to make positive changes that best support their needs.”

COPD is a lung disease that affects approximately 8,000 Islanders and 1.5 million Canadians. It includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema and causes coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, and fatigue. There is no cure. 

In addition to consulting with Islanders, Health PEI will seek input on the province’s COPD program from health care providers from primary care, acute care, long-term care, and other specialists. Health PEI will also evaluate the previous diabetes strategy to ensure it addresses prevention, screening and COPD management. 

The current COPD program offers resources and supports – including clinics – that educate Islanders about their disease and teach them how to proactively manage their symptoms to improve their quality of life.

“We have really evolved and enhanced the availability of education, resources and care across the province in recent years to better support and meet the needs of Islanders living with COPD,” said Celine MacLeod, registered respiratory therapist and provincial COPD coordinator. “As a program, it is important that we hear from Islanders living with COPD. Their life and health care experiences will help guide future planning for COPD programs and services that continue to meet their needs.”

More information about the Provincial COPD Program and care is available at: www.princeedwardisland.ca/en/information/health-pei/copd-program

Media contact:
Amanda Hamel
ajhamel@gov.pe.ca