CODP - AECOPD

September 14, 2026 - Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD)

Recognizing the importance of the quality of spirometry maneuvers and the analysis of spirometry results in establishing a diagnosis of COPD by physicians and specialized nurse practitioners, INESSS, following a mandate from the Ministère de la Santé et des Services sociaux (MSSS), is making available to nurses and respiratory therapists a new National Medical Protocol (#888056) on the administration of spirometry testing, accompanied by its collective prescription template and tutorial (available only in french).

These documents complement National Medical Protocol #888052 on the initiation of pre- and post-bronchodilator spirometry testing, as well as its associated collective prescription template and tutorial (available only in french)., which have been updated to incorporate clinical considerations related to the use of short-acting bronchodilators for post-bronchodilator spirometry.

These tools further enhance the COPD toolkit, which also includes the Optimal Use Guide for COPD Treatments, the Inhaler Device Selection Support Tool, and the Spirometry Interpretation Support Tool. Together, these resources are intended to support and promote interprofessional collaboration among clinicians involved at various stages of the care pathway of individuals suspected of having COPD or living with the disease, thereby contributing to a consistent and appropriate clinical management approach.

However, changes in clinical practice will also depend on improved access to spirometry services. To support implementation, several potential courses of action were identified during the development process and are briefly presented in the summaries of the associated reports.