Screening for COPD using a validated screening tool is an important step in identifying patients who may be at risk for COPD.
The COPD screening tool is easy to use and can be self-administered by the patient in a clinician's office. Currently, there are two validated screening tools. Both tools involve five questions related to a patient's smoking history and symptoms. The questions are scored based on the patient's risk for COPD.
The COPD Alliance provides clinicians access to a validated COPD Population ScreenerTM (COPD-PS) online. Clinicians can download the COPD-PS (English and Spanish versions) for use in their offices or instruct patients to take the electronic version online.
Screening alone does not confirm a COPD diagnosis. However, using the final screening score, clinicians can determine if a patient should undergo spirometry testing to confirm a COPD diagnosis. All patients who score 5 or greater on the validated screener should undergo spirometry testing to confirm diagnosis.
This short, five-question survey asks questions about your breathing and what you are able to do. It may help you identify if you are at risk for COPD. Complete the survey, then print and share the results with your clinician during your next visit.
*The screener is validated for use in the United States and was published in the Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, April 2008, Martinez, F. J., Raczek, A. E., Seifer, F. D., Conoscenti, C. S., Curtice, T. G. & D'Eletto, T., et al. (2008). Development and Initial Validation of a Self-Scored COPD Population Screener Questionnaire (COPD-PS). COPD: Journal of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease, 5:2, 85-95.
COPD Population Screener is a trademark of QualityMetric Incorporated