Program Description
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) represents a significant global
health challenge and is a major driver of annual health care costs in the
United States due to uncontrolled exacerbations and high rates of
hospitalization. Traditionally, management has relied on symptom-focused
inhaler therapies, but these are often limited by poor patient adherence,
manual dexterity issues, and a singular management approach that does not
adequately slow the decline of lung function. While the emergence of precision
medicines and targeted biologics has offered a paradigm shift toward
disease-modifying care, a substantial gap remains between these therapies and
their routine implementation in clinical practice. Specialty pharmacists are
essential to bringing these therapies to patients by identifying treatable
traits, educating patients on complex administration, and navigating the
significant access and affordability barriers associated with novel therapies.
This session will equip pharmacists to apply the 2026 GOLD risk stratification
criteria using biomarkers like blood eosinophil counts, compare the clinical
evidence for biologics versus triple therapy for advanced COPD treatment
options, and identify specific pharmacist-led interventions to transition COPD
management from reactive symptom control to proactive, individualized care.
Target audience: Specialty pharmacists
Type of activity: Application
Release date: June 24, 2026
Expiration date: June 24, 2027
Learner level: Foundational, Intermediate
Time to complete activity: 1.5 hour
Fee: Free
Educational Objectives
At the completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
- Apply the 2026 GOLD risk stratification criteria for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), exacerbations, and blood eosinophil counts to identify candidates for biologic therapy
- Compare triple therapy (LABA+LAMA+ICS) and biologic therapy options by mechanism of action and evidence for lung function improvement and exacerbation prevention in specific COPD phenotypes
- Explain 2026 GOLD treatment algorithms distinguishing initial therapy from follow-up management based on treatable traits and exacerbations, including escalation to biologics
- Identify opportunities for pharmacist-led interventions such as screening, medication access for COPD biologics, medication use support for complex regimens, and patient education and collaborative care to improve COPD outcomes
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