COPD Health Inequalities Improvement Programme
The NHS Confederation, in partnership with Sanofi, has launched the COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) Health Inequalities Improvement Programme to enhance respiratory care by addressing disparities in access and outcomes for COPD patients, particularly in underserved communities. This initiative employs The NHS Confederation’s 5-step collaboration model to foster partnerships and improve health equity across regions.
COPD disproportionately affects people in deprived areas, where risk factors such as smoking, air pollution, and poor housing conditions are more prevalent. Geographical disparities are evident, with higher COPD rates in Northern England and rural regions compared to London and the South. Many patients in these areas face significant barriers to accessing specialist care services, often needing to travel long distances for treatment.
Digital exclusion is also a significant issue, as limited access to online self-management tools can widen the gap between affluent and deprived communities. This lack of access further exacerbates health inequalities and limits the ability of individuals to manage their conditions effectively.
Additionally, recognising the link between health and economic growth, people with chronic diseases, such as respiratory conditions, often risk falling into poverty. This not only harms their health but has an impact on working-age individuals and the wider economy.
To tackle these issues, the COPD Health Inequalities Improvement Programme employs a 5-step collaboration model that integrates NHS principles into service redesign and improvement, ensuring that care is both clinically led and community-owned. This data-driven approach will identify areas with the greatest need, focusing on access to medicines and the management of care plans to reduce variations in treatment quality.
Key steps for implementing this model include:
- Support systems: Streamlining the COPD pathway to align with national and local best practices, identifying potential efficiency gains.
- Optimised care: Enhancing treatment adherence and self-management strategies, particularly for patients facing health literacy challenges, which can affect their ability to follow prescribed treatments effectively.
- Timely access: Strengthening collaboration between primary and secondary care to ensure prompt access to specialist support.
By focusing on these interventions, the COPD Health Inequalities Improvement Programme aims to create a healthier future for all. The initiative encourages Integrated Care Board leaders and local health authorities to actively use the programme to drive meaningful change in their regions and ensure that everyone receives the quality care they deserve.
“This initiative serves as a catalyst for sustainable solutions to tackle respiratory health inequalities. By fostering collaboration across Integrated Care Systems and community ownership, the programme aims to create a more equitable healthcare landscape for those affected by COPD. We look forward to seeing the positive impact of this programme as it fosters innovation and drives sustainable change for those affected by COPD.”
Matthew Taylor, Chief Executive, NHS Confederation.
“The urgent need to tackle deep-rooted health inequalities in England means that collaboration between the NHS and industry has never been more vital. By combining our collective experience, expertise and resources, this exciting partnership between Sanofi and the NHS Confederation will allow us to tackle complex challenges head on - and ultimately ensure more equal access to the best possible care for people with COPD.”
Rippon Ubhi, Country Lead, Sanofi UK and Ireland
