Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is one of the most common respiratory conditions of adults in the developed world and the fifth biggest killer in the UK.

Encompassing both chronic bronchitis and emphysema, COPD affects approximately 1.5 per cent of the population. Sufferers typically – and frequently – become short of breath, which can cause them to panic about their condition. Despite being in regular contact with a GP or a community matron, who is there to provide reassurance, this can understandably cause patients to dial 999 or head straight to their local accident & emergency unit for treatment, at considerable cost to the PCT.

Axis-Shield UK has a range of testing devices available that can help PCTs manage COPD patients more effectively and reduce emergency admissions. These include the Abbott i-STAT instrument - a revolutionary, handheld analyser that provides reliable, lab-accurate test results in minutes for a whole range of parameters, including blood gases.

To find out how Axis-Shield can help you manage COPD patients more effectively, whilst delivering very significant cost savings, please call us on 01480 862100 or email: COPD@axis-shielduk.com

References available on request