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Long-term oxygen therapy in Ioannina.
Stamatis Katsenos1, Marios E Froudarakis, Alexandros Charisis
1Department of Pneumonology, University Hospital of Ioannina, Ioannina, Greece. skatsenos@yahoo.gr
Respiration; International Review of Thoracic Diseases
|January 4, 2005
Summary
Patient compliance with long-term oxygen treatment (LTOT) for COPD is low in Greece, with only 26.9% adhering to therapy. An organized home care program with clear guidelines is crucial for improving LTOT efficacy.
Area of Science:
- Pulmonary Medicine
- Respiratory Care
- Health Services Research
Background:
- Long-term oxygen treatment (LTOT) is vital for severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients.
- Patient adherence significantly impacts the effectiveness of LTOT.
- Understanding compliance barriers is essential for optimizing COPD management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess LTOT compliance rates among patients in Ioannina, Greece.
- To identify factors influencing LTOT adherence in this population.
- To inform strategies for improving oxygen therapy outcomes.
Main Methods:
- A study involving 249 patients receiving LTOT over one year.
- Home visits conducted by a chest specialist and primary care nurse.
- Compliance measured by daily oxygen concentrator use (hours); spirometry and pulse oximetry performed.
Main Results:
- Low compliance observed: only 26.9% (67 patients) met therapy goals (9.7 +/- 6.09 hours/day).
- Lower SaO2, FEV1, and FVC levels correlated with reduced patient compliance.
- No significant compliance differences found based on sex, location, or smoking status; physician specialty did not significantly impact adherence.
Conclusions:
- Substantial improvement in LTOT compliance requires an organized home care program in Greece.
- Establishing clear guidelines for LTOT delivery and patient support is recommended.
- Addressing compliance issues is critical for enhancing the benefits of LTOT for COPD patients.