Denis Naughten (Roscommon-Galway, Independent) | Oireachtas source

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, COPD, is a major health issue in Ireland claiming the lives of four people daily. It is a lung condition affecting one in 13 adults which hinders the movement of air in and out of their lungs and makes breathing difficult. Despite its manageability, only 20% of those with COPD are diagnosed. Often, this is too late, as diagnoses frequently occur during medical emergencies. This contributes to Ireland having the highest hospital admission rates for COPD in the developed world with nearly two admissions every hour, which is double the OECD average.

While the situation places a financial strain on our health service, costing approximately €120 million annually in hospital admissions, it also puts greater pressure on hospital beds during the winter when acute COPD-related illnesses are more frequent, as these patients tend to stay in hospital significantly longer than the average patient.

Reducing hospital admissions for COPD would significantly ease overcrowding in our emergency departments this winter. It is frustrating that COPD management is feasible yet healthcare delivery falls short.

Under Sláintecare, 24 integrated care consultants were promised to manage COPD care but only eight are in place. General practitioners have primary responsibility for COPD care and were promised to be supported by 30 specialist ambulatory hubs. However, only a fraction of these hubs, and the planned clinical nurse specialists in pulmonary rehabilitation, are operational. I must reiterate that the lack of support services leads to overwhelming pressures on our emergency departments, especially during the winter with COPD patients occupying beds which could be avoided with better community healthcare.

Moreover, socio-economic status significantly contributes to COPD outcomes in Ireland. The risk of dying from COPD is as high due to poverty as it is to smoking-related causes. Furthermore, there is a staggering 366% disparity in COPD mortality rates between that of a barrister and that of a bricklayer. Factors such as poor housing, low income, limited access to healthcare, types of employment and environmental conditions disproportionately affect those with COPD from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

We must prioritise community-based COPD care within our health service in the interests of all of our patients.

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