Patient preference and adherence
A Qualitative Study Exploring the Perspectives of Individuals with COPD and Caregivers on COPD Maintenance Treatments in the United States
By Mickle AT, Hess MW, Bihari A and 5 others.
Abstract
Objectives
Pharmacologic maintenance therapies for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are available in various forms and delivery devices, yet few studies have focused on preferences for delivery modes beyond handheld inhalers. This qualitative study explored perspectives on COPD maintenance therapies and delivery device features among individuals with COPD and their caregivers in the United States (US).
Methods
Participants were recruited through the COPD Foundation using purposive sampling with quotas to capture a range of experiences. Eligible participants included adults with COPD who had a self-reported diagnosis of COPD, scored ≥2 on the Modified Medical Research Council Dyspnea scale, and were receiving maintenance therapy with an inhaler and/or nebulizer. Caregivers were adults who provided support to an individual with COPD. Data were collected through virtual focus groups or semi-structured interviews. Transcripts were analyzed using summative content analysis, combining the identification and quantification of key concepts (manifest content) with interpretation of underlying meanings (latent content).