Designing a Workplace Wellness Toolkit for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease: Improving Health and Lowering Costs

Background COPD is an umbrella term describing progressive lung diseases including emphysema, chronic bronchitis, refractory asthma and some forms of bronchiectasis. In 2008 COPD became the 3rd cause of death. 70% of COPD occurs under age 65. Half of the 24 million affected haven't been diagnosed. The average patient is not diagnosed until half of lung function is lost. Employers can minimize the burden of COPD through awareness and education efforts leading to earlier detection and improved management.

Aim:

To conduct qualitative and quantitative research with employers to develop a COPD employer toolkit and increase employer engagement.

Methods:

Phase-one included literature searches, focus groups and an electronic survey assessing employer wellness priorities, COPD knowledge and toolkit focus and format preferences. Phase-two included analysis and creation of materials with the Maryland COPD Coalition and businesses. Phase-three included evaluation of materials by employers, material refinement and deployment. Phase four includes assessment of deployment strategy and outcome measurement.

Results: Phase-one findings included; employers had low knowledge of COPD's burden; priorities included diabetes, heart disease, and tobacco cessation; perceived reasons why COPD was not a wellness priority included lack of knowledge on cost impact, low public awareness, high competition and misconception of COPD as a disease of elderly.

Based on these findings the materials focused on explaining cost burden and correcting the misconception of COPD. A cost-calculator was developed and tools were designed to integrate with existing wellness activities. At the time of submission evaluation is underway. Full results will be available in March.