COPD Resources

If you or someone you care about have been diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), you're likely to find these resources helpful.

Understanding COPD

Learn More, Breathe Better

National Institutes of Health / National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
A comprehensive website with links to articles and online tools.

Now That You Know It's COPD

National Institutes of Health / National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute
How COPD affects breathing and how to improve the quality of your life when you have COPD.

Managing symptoms

Living with Dyspnea — How to Breathe Easier

National Institutes of Health
Ways to deal with shortness of breath, including pursed-lip breathing, paced breathing, and desensitization.

Shortness of Breath (Dyspnea)

Memorial Sloan Kettering
Ways to deal with shortness of breath, tips for recovering from an episode of shortness of breath, and suggestions for dealing with anxiety related to shortness of breath.

My COPD Action Plan and Management Plan

American Lung Association
Forms to download and complete with your health care provider that will help you manage your COPD.

Smoking Cessation

US Family Health Plan Benefits

US Family Health Plan covers smoking-cessation medications, including over-the counter-medications.

Keep in mind that:

You must obtain the medications through our Home Delivery service or through the Brighton Marine pharmacy.
You must have a prescription (even for medications that can be purchased over the counter).
No co-pay is required.
Coverage is limited to two quit attempts per year.

Other resources

If you'd like to learn more about ways to stop smoking, there are plenty of resources available. Your primary care provider is a good place to start. You can also contact:

Massachusetts Tobacco Cessation and Prevention Program (Massachusetts residents)

1.800.QUITNOW (784.8669)
Free telephone counseling sessions and self-help materials.

Rhode Island Smokers’ Quitline (Rhode Island residents)