Respiratory Care
If you have chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD) or asthma, take part in our respiratory programs at Desert Oasis Healthcare's PHARxM™ Population Health and Prescription Management department, and get help to breathe easier.
Certified Respiratory Therapists and Clinical Pharmacists
Find expert care and compassionate support from our clinical pharmacists and dedicated respiratory therapist. Clinical pharmacists are specially trained in conditions affecting our population and respiratory therapists have advanced training to help you improve the function of your lungs.
What’s COPD?
Asthma Attack
An asthma attack (also called an acute asthma episode, flare-up, or exacerbation) is a sudden worsening of asthma symptoms, including shortness of breath, chest tightness, wheezing, and coughing.
Although asthma attacks may seem to occur suddenly, they can occur after several days of symptoms getting worse. Symptoms may be mild, moderate, or severe. Episodes can be brief (about an hour) or can last for several days.
Asthma attacks can be serious. But they can usually be treated at home by using quick-relief medicine and an increased dose of controller medicine. For severe asthma attacks, you may need to contact a doctor or seek Immediate Care.
Pulmonary Management Program
Enroll in DOHC’S Pulmonary Management Program and improve your quality of life.
Call 760-969-6560 to enroll in our free program.
Is the Program Right for Me?
Get a referral from your doctor for respiratory therapy if you:
- Have a diagnosis of COPD or asthma
- Have respiratory symptoms like shortness of breath or cough that make it hard to do your daily activities
- Had a recent hospital or emergency room visit due to COPD or asthma
What to Expect
At your first appointment, your therapist will get to know you and help you set goals for your respiratory therapy. During regular visits, you’ll:
Medication Services
Rely on your team to:
- Answer questions about the medications you take
- Ask if you can afford your medications and offer resources that can help
- Check that your medications are working well for you, and that you’re taking them as directed
- Explain when and how to use your inhaler
- Give you emergency medications to use at home if COPD symptoms worsen
- Talk with you about getting through a COPD or asthma flare-up
Coordinated Treatment
You’ll appreciate how all of your DOHC providers—including your respiratory therapist, clinical pharmacist, and primary care provider—communicate about your health and any changes in your medications and treatment plan. This means you’ll benefit from coordinated care that’s personalized to your needs as they change.
