Lenus COPD Support Service for remotely managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

Level of innovation

Two experts thought that Lenus COPD Support Service is novel, but 3 mentioned similar remote technologies. One expert believed that Lenus COPD Support Service differs from these in its integration of patient-reported outcomes, Fitbit and non-invasive ventilation (NIV) data, and clinical data.

Potential patient impact

Potential patient benefits of Lenus COPD Support Service include early intervention for exacerbations, fewer hospital admissions, and increased reassurance of patients through the monitoring of their chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). One expert believed the technology could promote more activity and healthy behaviours in people who are motivated and have digital access. People who may particularly benefit from using the technology include those with high healthcare use because of frequent exacerbations or severe COPD, little or no social support, anxiety, agoraphobia, or who are good with technology and like to monitor symptoms.

One expert claimed that there were no clear clinical benefits of Lenus COPD Support Service based on the current evidence. They added that people with severe COPD would already be familiar with self-management strategies. Two experts advised that some people who use Lenus COPD Support Service may increase contact with their healthcare professional. But 3 experts cautioned that people may rely on the technology and delay seeking help when needed.

Potential system impact

Lenus COPD Support Service could have system benefits if it prevents or reduces hospital admissions and improves outcomes. One expert noted that evidence of this is needed by prospectively comparing the device with standard care. All experts believed Lenus COPD Support Service would initially cost more than standard care. Additional resource needs may include more nurse time to monitor data and answer patient questions, time for getting patients started using the technology, and additional resources to give timely interventions to avoid more emergency calls. The experts advised that the technology would also need integration with existing IT services, training of staff and patients, and compliance with governance standards. One expert noted that it was unclear if all the components of the technology are needed to achieve the claimed benefits. They questioned whether individual aspects of the technology, such as an activity monitor, could be used individually to produce the same benefits with lower costs.

General comments

Lenus COPD Support Service is currently being used in the NHS in Scotland and will soon be piloted in England. Two experts commented that it is not currently widely used. One added that most people would probably want to see a healthcare professional if they had concerns with their COPD.

One expert advised that telemedicine and similar remote platforms have had difficulty with uptake in the NHS because of costs and lack of evidence. Remote monitoring is a growing area with more expansion likely as part of the NHS's 2022/23 priorities and operational planning guidance. But the experts noted that some people may not have access to technology or reliable internet needed to use Lenus COPD Support Service. People also need a certain level of digital literacy to be able to use the technology. One expert noted that evidence is needed on the use of Lenus COPD Support Service by people with COPD who have little technological experience. All experts commented that more evidence is needed on the clinical and cost effectiveness of Lenus COPD Support Service. One expert also stated that more evidence is needed to identify which patient groups may benefit the most from using the technology.