BC Lung is funding the participation of 15 COPD patients in a pilot of WillKin Health's COPD ConnEx program. The program is intended as a bridge prior to or following clinical pulmonary rehab. It could also be an option for patients in remote locations.
In brief, the program involves 12 weekly one-on-one 45-minute sessions delivered via ZOOM. Kinesiologists deliver the program. Each session is comprised of 35 minutes of exercise and 10 minutes of education, with the exception of sessions 1, 2, and 12 when the Kinesiologist carries out a series of physical and mental health assessments. COPD patients of all levels are welcome if in stable condition. Self-directed exercise is prescribed by the Kinesiologist in between weekly sessions.
BC Lung summary of COPD ConnEx Program Information
WillKin Health forms requiring completion to participate
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Patient referral form (Required)
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CSEP Get Active questionnaire (Required)
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Informed Consent Agreement (Required)
Assessments and questionnaires employed during program
The program is guided by the work of Dr. Bourbeau, a world-renowned expert in COPD, disease self-management and pulmonary rehabilitation. Dr. Bourbeau is Board President of RESPIPLUS (developers of Living Well with COPD).
WillKin Health's COPD ConnEx program participant physical/health assessment procedures are also guided by Dr. Bourbeau and his team's input. These assessments include, but are not limited to the:
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COPD assessment test
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Lower extremity functional index questionnaire
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Hospital anxiety and depression scale (HADs)
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Short physical performance battery tests
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Postural assessment