Shirley

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common lung condition affecting about 10% of adults worldwide, with a prevalence of 4.5% in those aged 40 years and older in the UK. Exacerbations, or sudden worsening episodes often triggered by infections, can lead to hospital admissions and carry risks of increased illness and death. This trial focuses on the high-risk 90-day period after hospital discharge, during which patients have a 43% chance of readmission and 12% risk of mortality. The study aims to test whether a supported rescue pack management plan can reduce readmissions by 20%. This is a Phase 3, open-label, multicenter randomized controlled trial involving 1400 patients across 30 NHS trusts.