The American Lung Association COPD Educator Course is a professional education course for healthcare professionals who work with COPD patients, such as respiratory therapists, internal medicine nurses, pulmonary nurses, pharmacists and care managers. The course includes thorough and practical information healthcare professionals can use in their work with COPD patients while earning continuing education credits. 

The COPD Educator Course is a three partial-day course.

745+ healthcare professionals attended over the last 3 years

Course Topics & Objectives:

Recognize that COPD is preventable and treatable and increasing in prevalence.

Discuss and understand the pathophysiology of COPD.

Understand key components of spirometry and its role in diagnosis and management

Recognize COPD risk factors, specifically smoking; discuss prevention strategies, including cessation programs

Explain how pulmonary rehabilitation and self-management skills can improve quality of life for a COPD patient.

Utilize shared decision making and engagement strategies to help patients improve medication adherence, reduce health care burden, and be active in their healthcare.

Observe and practice correct inhaler device technique.

Understand principles for selection of appropriate oxygen therapy devices.

Review risk factors and discuss interventions to reduce readmissions.

Understand the role of palliative care and hospice for COPD patients.

Identify medications used in COPD management and differentiate between action pathways of common COPD pharmacological therapies, dosing regimens.

Visit a link below to register for a course near you or call 1-800-LUNGUSA to learn more.
99% of attendees would recommend this course to their colleagues

“I am so glad I registered for this class. So far, every session has exceeded any expectations I had. The information is great, and the speakers are fantastic! Thank you to everyone there who put in the effort to bring this class to us. I can't wait for the next one!” 

- Robyn from Arizona

“I think I can honestly say this 3-day course has been the best virtual conference I’ve ever attended. Well-put together, engaging…!”

- October 2022 course attendee

All Nationwide COPD Educator Courses

The next virtual COPD Educator Course is scheduled for April 11, 16, 18 2024. Stay informed with the latest Lung Association COPD resources and receive information when the course registration opens by adding your name to the listserv below.

Stay Informed

If you don’t see an event that works for your schedule or location, we have more events scheduled over the next 12 months that will be posted soon. If you would like to be informed on programs, events, continuing education opportunities, or future resources, please sign up using the form below and a staff member will be in touch to discuss your needs.

Page last updated: January 23, 2024

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