Patients with a chronic respiratory condition in Luton are receiving the support they need over the internet during the coronavirus pandemic. 

A seven-week Virtual Pulmonary Rehab programme, run by Luton Community Respiratory Services, teaches and supports patients to manage their condition at home.  

Included are crucial strengthening and conditioning exercises, as well as educational talks focusing on medication, smoking cessation, future planning, managing breathlessness and infections. 

The virtual programme was introduced by Luton Children’s and Adults’ Community Health Services, part of Cambridge Community Services NHS Trust, in 2020 following feedback from patients. 

Hayley Bradshaw, Community Respiratory Clinical Nurse Specialist, said: “Due to coronavirus we stopped all face-to-face programmes. All of our pulmonary rehab patients were contacted so they could be advised on exercising at home. 

“Unfortunately, many patients noticed they were becoming more deconditioned due to a drop in activity levels. We quickly looked at ways we could support them to continue on their programmes without coming to class.”

The nationally recognised Pulmonary Rehab programme is normally run by Luton Community Respiratory Services from the Luton Treatment Centre, Dallow Road. Online and offline options are now offered. There is a pre-recorded programme accessed via email links. There is an NHS-approved MyCOPD app featuring exercise videos. Those without internet access may opt for a paper version. 

Before they join the programme a nurse assesses patients by telephone, video consultation or in clinic. Tests asses the chronic respiratory condition’s impact on a patient’s life and mental wellbeing and there is a review of medication. Equipment for assessments is dropped off at patients’ homes with strict social distancing in place.  

“If they are safe to exercise at home we send them an emailed link or booklet,” Hayley Bradshaw continued. “They are called by one of the team weekly to answer any questions they may have from the educational videos and to give encouragement with the exercise and advice where needed."

After the seven-week programme, patients are assessed again. 

“We discuss with the patient how they are planning to maintain the advancements they have made,” Hayley added. “If required or desired they are referred to Total Wellbeing, Active Luton for ongoing exercise support.”

Feedback is currently being collected but overall the programme has been a great success.

“Patients like the convenience of exercising at home and like the level of support given,” said Hayley.

“Other family members often get involved and they are all getting fitter together.”