From the perspective of Valda’s respiratory therapist, Kelly Long:
“Valda agreed to be apart of The RT to Home program. Which gave her access to an RT post discharge for 90 days, predominantly weekly visits and phone conversations as needed. On her visit we identified that she needed and wanted new PCP, she did not have GOLD Standard Rx for her COPD nor rescue inhaler. She needed portable oxygen and she was a bit overwhelmed with the 02.
All of these needs were addresses: She got a new PCP, We got the correct RT RX (maintenance & rescue inhalers) for her and made a hospital f/u apt with the Pulmonologist(she did not have prior), she received a POS unit for portability so that she could leave the house with ease, and declined the POC as she felt the POS was less weight for her to carry.
Valda was able to leave the house to go on appointments and leisurely drives with her dog- thus regaining her independence.
She was followed up by the Respiratory Therapist weekly which eased her anxiety over her new diagnosis of COPD because she was checked on by a qualified professional.”