People with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) in South Eastern NSW will now be supported to better manage their illness in the community with the creation of new program, LinkMyCare.

COPD is a progressive and disabling condition that limits airflow in the lungs and can result in people experiencing increasing shortness of breath, a persistent cough with phlegm, and a limited ability to complete everyday activities.

LinkMyCare will be implemented across 16 general practices throughout South Eastern NSW over the next 18 months and will provide resources for General Practitioners (GPs) to support patients to manage their condition in the community and access the services they need without travelling far from home or paying out-of-pocket costs.

It will also support patients to move between hospital and GPs, reducing the likelihood of a re-presentation to hospital and improving the information flow between a patient's GP and the care team within the hospital.

LinkMyCare has been co-designed by the South Eastern NSW Strategic Partnership which consists of Southern NSW Local Health District (LHD), Illawarra Shoalhaven LHD and COORDINARE - South Eastern NSW Public Health Network.

Further information on the program available at LinkMyCare.

Quotes attributable to Minister for Health Ryan Park

“This innovative program will improve the quality of life for people with COPD, reduce hospital stays and help health teams work collectively to support their patients."

“Importantly, LinkMyCare will help people with COPD manage their symptoms closer to home and at no out of pocket cost."

“This initiative will help people better manage their COPD symptoms so they can breathe a little easier and live a more enjoyable life."

Quotes attributable to Medical Director at COORDINARE and Illawarra GP Dr Katherine Michelmore

“COPD is a serious chronic health issue for our region. Patients with COPD need significant support from their general practice teams and need to access services with allied health providers and hospitals."

“The LinkMyCare program will encourage patients and general practices, to facilitate integration with allied health teams and hospital services to ensure the right care at the right time."