Pharmacotherapy Management of COPD Exacerbation (PCE)

Assesses chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) exacerbations for adults 40 years of age and older who had appropriate medication therapy to manage an exacerbation. A COPD exacerbation is defined as an inpatient or ED visit with a primary discharge diagnosis of COPD.

Why it Matters

Approximately 15 million adults in the United States have COPD, an irreversible disease that limits airflow to the lungs. COPD exacerbations or “flare-ups” make up a significant portion of the costs associated with the disease.¹ However, symptoms can be controlled with appropriate medication.²,³ Appropriate prescribing of medication following exacerbation can prevent future flare-ups and drastically reduce the costs of COPD.

Historical Results – National Averages