Improving Access to Pulmonary Rehabilitation for Hispanic and Black Patients with COPD Through Telehealth

To expand access to pulmonary rehabilitation for underserved Black and Hispanic patients with COPD, a care team developed a telehealth-based program that delivered exercise training, symptom management, and social support directly to patients' homes. Participants received equipment, internet-enabled technology, and support from a bilingual respiratory therapist and social worker to help overcome common barriers such as transportation, financial hardship, and limited access to care. The program also offered community-based options for patients facing challenges with home participation.