Paramedic Evaluation for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease

(PEACE Trial)

This trial tests a new program to help individuals with moderate to severe Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) manage sudden symptom worsening at home. The program, called Paramedic Evaluation for Acute COPD Exacerbation, involves specially trained paramedics visiting patients' homes to provide care, aiming to reduce emergency visits and hospital stays. The trial evaluates the practicality and effectiveness of this approach by collecting feedback from patients and healthcare providers. Individuals who have had at least one emergency visit due to COPD in the past six months and live within the UMass Memorial Medical Center's service area might be suitable for this study. As an unphased trial, this study offers patients the chance to contribute to innovative care solutions that could enhance COPD management at home.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.

Research has shown that programs like the PEACE intervention are generally safe for patients. One study of community-based digital health programs found that patients with moderate to severe COPD who received similar home care experienced positive results. This care involved paramedics using mobile tools and medications, with doctors providing support through telehealth. No major safety issues were reported.

Researchers are excited about the Paramedic Evaluation for acute COPD Exacerbation (PEACE) because it introduces a potentially game-changing approach to managing COPD flare-ups. Unlike standard treatments that often rely on hospital-based interventions and medications like bronchodilators and corticosteroids, PEACE focuses on early intervention by paramedics. This method aims to provide timely and precise care right at the scene, which could reduce the need for hospitalizations and improve outcomes for patients. By empowering paramedics with specialized training and protocols, this approach could lead to faster, more effective management of acute exacerbations, potentially transforming emergency care for COPD patients.

Research has shown that early treatment of COPD flare-ups can prevent hospital visits and improve patients' quality of life. In this trial, the PEACE program, a Mobile Integrated Health (MIH) initiative, employs specially trained paramedics to provide home care. This approach aims to quickly address worsening symptoms and reduce the need for emergency care. Early findings suggest that regular check-ups and prompt treatment can significantly reduce the pressure on emergency services. By receiving care quickly, patients may avoid hospital trips and manage their COPD symptoms more effectively.¹³⁶⁷⁸