Virtual Care Transition for COPD
(TELE-TOC Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial tests a new method to help people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) transition from hospital to home care using virtual visits. The goal is to determine if telehealth (online doctor visits) can effectively support patients in managing their medications and health at home, potentially reducing hospital readmissions. Participants will receive either virtual care, which includes services like the COPD advanced practice nurse Inpatient Consult and Virtual At Home Medication Education Visit(s), along with their usual COPD care, or just their usual care. This trial is for adults hospitalized due to a COPD flare-up and who are part of a specific hospital readmission program. As an unphased trial, this study offers the opportunity to explore innovative care methods that could enhance the home recovery experience.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on improving medication use, so it's possible you may continue your current regimen.
What prior data suggests that the TELE-TOC intervention is safe for COPD patients?
Research has shown that virtual visits at home can benefit people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). These visits aim to improve medication adherence and reduce related issues. Studies have found that patients receive these virtual visits well and find them helpful after hospital discharge.
During in-home virtual visits, healthcare professionals, such as pharmacy team members, help patients understand and manage their medications more effectively. This approach aims to prevent medication errors and improve overall health, particularly for those frequently requiring hospital care.
No serious safety issues have been reported with this type of care. It focuses on ensuring correct medication use, which can help prevent problems that might lead to another hospital visit.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the Virtual Care Transition for COPD because it aims to enhance patient care through innovative technology and personalized support. Unlike traditional treatments that often require multiple in-person visits, this approach uses virtual at-home visits for medication education and reconciliation, reducing the need for hospital trips. This method can improve patient understanding and adherence to their medication regimen right from the comfort of their home. Additionally, the integration of a COPD advanced practice nurse for inpatient consults ensures that patients receive specialized care tailored to their needs, potentially reducing hospital readmissions. Overall, this trial seeks to combine the benefits of technology and expert care to improve outcomes for individuals with COPD.
What evidence suggests that the TELE-TOC intervention could be effective for COPD patients?
Research has shown that virtual doctor visits at home can greatly benefit people with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Studies have found that some individuals with severe COPD can manage flare-ups at home by consulting doctors through technology, avoiding trips to the doctor's office. One study found that digital tools can reduce emergency room visits and hospital stays for COPD patients. Evidence also suggests that mobile health programs can help individuals take their medications on time. This trial will compare the TELE-TOC program, which includes virtual care interventions, with usual care. The TELE-TOC program may improve health for COPD patients by making care more accessible and manageable at home.15678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Valerie G Press, MD, MPH
Principal Investigator
University of Chicago
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults aged 40 or older who have been hospitalized with a COPD exacerbation and are part of the COPD Hospital Readmission Reduction Program. It's designed to help those at high risk for readmission and medication issues.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive the TELE-TOC intervention, which includes virtual, pharmacy-based, in-home visits for COPD patients to improve medication use and patient outcomes.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment, including evaluation of COPD symptoms and medication errors.
Long-term Follow-up
Participants are monitored for emergency department visits and/or re-hospitalization within 90 to 180 days of index admission.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- COPD advanced practice nurse Inpatient Consult
- Inpatient Medication Reconciliation
- Post-discharge follow-up advanced practice nurse outpatient visit
- Post-discharge nurse 48 hour phone follow-up call
- Virtual At Home Medication Education Visit(s)
- Virtual at Home Medication Reconciliation Visit(s)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Chicago
Lead Sponsor
Society of Hospital Medicine
Collaborator
COPD Foundation
Collaborator
Washington University School of Medicine
Collaborator
Hospital Medicine Reengineering Network (HOMERuN)
Collaborator
The American Telemedicine Association
Collaborator
Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality (AHRQ)
Collaborator