Nationwide implementation of the self-management program "Living well with COPD": Process and effectiveness...

Area of Science:

• Pulmonary Medicine
• Health Services Research
• Program Implementation Science

Background:

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) management requires effective patient support programs.
• Nationwide implementation of health programs presents unique logistical and operational challenges.
• The Swiss Lung Association developed the "Living well with COPD" program to address these needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the nationwide implementation of the "Living well with COPD" program across various Swiss cantons.
• To assess the process outcomes (reach, dose, fidelity, acceptability) and effectiveness of the program.
• To provide insights for broader dissemination and international application.

Main Methods:

• A mixed-methods approach combining qualitative (interviews, focus groups) and quantitative (questionnaires, documentation analysis) data.
• Process evaluation focused on implementation fidelity, reach, dose, and acceptability.
• Effectiveness was assessed via pre-post analysis of patient-reported outcomes and clinical measures.

Main Results:

• The program was implemented by seven Cantonal Lung Associations, reaching 122 COPD patients with an 81% attendance rate.
• High fidelity (94%) and acceptance were reported, though challenges included coach workload and reimbursement.
• Patients demonstrated significant improvements in COPD-specific quality of life and exercise capacity.

Conclusions:

• The "Living well with COPD" program achieved successful nationwide implementation in Switzerland.
• High patient acceptability and positive impacts on quality of life were observed.
• Findings support program expansion within Switzerland and offer valuable lessons for international COPD management.