A PROVIDER NEEDS ASSESSMENT FOR A PULMONARY REHABILITATION PROGRAM AT A RURAL COMMUNITY HOSPITAL

Pulmonary rehabilitation is a comprehensive rehabilitation program that utilizes exercises and education in order to assist with the management of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by decreasing COPD exacerbations and increasing patient quality of life. A critical component to proposing a pulmonary rehabilitation program at a rural community hospital involves the support for a program by the potential referring providers. It is theorized that positive thoughts and attitudes towards pulmonary rehabilitation by providers correlates with support and ongoing success of a pulmonary rehabilitation program. A survey of providers associated with Labette Health was conducted to assess such attitudes and thoughts on pulmonary rehabilitation. Results of the survey indicated that providers were generally supportive of pulmonary rehabilitation and that developing a pulmonary rehabilitation program should be considered by Labette Health administrators