A review of health-related outcomes from community pharmacist interventions in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Currently, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the fourth leading cause of death in the world and is predicted to be the third leading cause by the year 2020. The purpose of this manuscript is to review the expanding role of community pharmacists in the detection and management of patients with COPD. Pharmacists in the community setting can improve outcomes in patients with COPD by minimizing risk factors through smoking cessation interventions, prevention of disease by evaluating immunization history and early detection by providing spirometry. In addition, these pharmacists are well-positioned for initiating medication therapy management (MTM) services, reducing noncompliance by counseling on proper medication use to ensure adherence and correct inhalation technique, as well as participating in transition of care. There is evidence that pharmacists can support other health care professionals with appropriate treatment recommendations, reducing overall direct and indirect health care costs. In summary, medications are an important tool in managing COPD, with adherence being critically important for these patients, and community pharmacists are an accessible health care professional able to perform needed medication and wellness related interventions that can improve patient outcomes.