Lung & Breathing Conditions
There are two primary lung and breathing problems addressed by Network Health Plan’s Care Management team: Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD).
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
COPD is a chronic lung disease characterized by a limitation of the airflow in the lung, which develops over time and is not reversible. Airflow limitation is usually progressive and associated with an abnormal inflammatory response of the lungs. About 80-90% of those with COPD have a history of cigarette smoking.
Asthma
Asthma is a disorder of the breathing airways that involves a complex interaction of airflow obstruction, bronchial hyper responsiveness and an underlying inflammation. It starts when inflammation causes reversible airway obstructions, which results in symptoms such as wheezing, chest tightness, cough, and shortness of breath. A variety of factors are known to trigger asthma attacks, including allergens (pollen, dust mites and mold), viral infections, irritants (chemicals, tobacco smoke and air pollution) and other factors such as exercise, cold air, and stress. Uncontrolled asthma can lead to emergency department visits and hospitalizations.
Network Health Plan participants can learn more about asthma and COPD by visiting our Health Information Library, powered by WebMD. There you will find a more in-depth description of lung and breathing disorders as well as ideas for self management. If you are a Network Health Plan participant, sign in to My Account and then click on Heath Information Library to get started.
How Care Management Can Help
It’s our goal to help those with lung and breathing disorders to improve their quality of life, prevent the long-term effects of their condition, and reduce activity restrictions due to their breathing problems. Network Health Plan participants who are newly diagnosed with asthma or COPD receive a call from our Care Management team shortly after their diagnosis. During this phone call we discuss:
- The participant’s current health status as well as their health and wellness goals
- Testing and monitoring that will help them maintain good health and avoid complications
- Additional services such as classes, nurse case management services, etc.
- Educational resources that will help them maintain good health
Future follow up phone calls from our nurse care managers are encouraged for those with additional needs. During the initial phone, we determine the participant’s willingness to participate in this free service.
In addition to calling participants, we also send mailings that are designed to keep our participants informed and educated about their condition. The first letter gives an introduction to our care management program and explains the importance of self-management. Future mailings offer information on other important topics related to the lung & breathing condition.
Participants who are considered high risk due to their health condition may receive additional mailings and services, helping them get healthier by working with our nurse care managers and through self-management strategies.
