COPD Navigator

The COPD Navigator role at Nuvance Health is a vital part of our team, responsible for providing comprehensive education and support to patients diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and their families.

The ideal candidate will have extensive knowledge of the pathophysiology of lung diseases such as COPD, Interstitial Lung Disease, Asthma, and COVID-19, and best practices for treatment. They will also possess excellent customer service skills, ability to establish and build relationships with patients, families, and healthcare providers, and collaborate as part of a multi-disciplinary team to optimize patient outcomes.

Responsibilities:

1. Monitor the COPD/Sepsis Daily report to identify patients admitted with COPD exacerbations in Danbury or New Milford Hospitals.
2. Review patient charts and assess patient care plans to ensure appropriateness and make adjustments as necessary based on sound clinical judgment and accepted practice.
3. Regularly monitor patient response to specific treatment modalities and notify pulmonologists and attending physicians of unusual or adverse responses to medication or therapy.
4. Use diagnostic studies such as COPD GOLD staging and PFT results to characterize impairment in the cardio-pulmonary system of patients.
5. Perform, coordinate, schedule, and/or provide relevant education to patients with COPD and other pulmonary diseases or conditions.
6. Document thoroughly and appropriately in the Electronic Health Record (EHR) per established protocol and guidelines.
7. Makes follow-up phone calls post-discharge to answer questions, ensure adherence to home treatment regimen and makes appropriate referrals to help minimize chances of readmission to the hospital.
8. Collaborate with the Pulmonary Rehabilitation and Pulmonary Function Teams and makes appropriate referrals to each.
9. Attend community events upon request to represent the Pulmonary Department.
10. Maintain competency in performing all duties of a Registered Respiratory Therapist and completes all necessary training in a timely manner.