COPD | Conditions & Treatments

What is COPD?

Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, commonly called COPD, is a long-term, progressive disease that includes emphysema and chronic bronchitis. COPD affects the airways, making it difficult to breathe. While there is no cure for COPD, treatment that can allow you to remain active for many years—especially if the disease is diagnosed early.

The most common cause of COPD is cigarette smoking, and smoking after you have been diagnosed with COPD can make the disease worse.

UR Medicine's Treatments for Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Diseases (COPD)

Since its inception in 1968, the Pulmonary and Critical Care Division has grown into a dynamic group of more than 30 faculty members devoted to patient care, education, and research. We are a referral base for patients with complex lung diseases and critical illnesses.

Inpatient and outpatient services take place at Strong Memorial Hospital, Highland Hospital, and Thompson Health in Canandaigua. Services at these hospitals include pulmonary consultation, medical intensive care units, respiratory step-down units, fully equipped pulmonary function laboratories, and video-equipped bronchoscopy suites.

Outpatient services are also conducted at the Mary Parkes Center for Asthma, Allergy, and Pulmonary Care.

Because smoking is a major cause of COPD, our team of physicians, nurse practitioners, and lifestyle counselors can help you develop a plan to quit. UR Medicine’s Health Living Center offers physician-guided smoking cessation with their Stop Smoking Program.

What Sets Us Apart?

In its annual ranking of America’s Best Hospitals, US News & World Report has recognized the Pulmonology specialty program as “High Performing,” ranking it in the top 10 percent nationally.

Strong Memorial Hospital received the highest rating possible in its treatment of patients with COPD. The scores were determined by numerous factors, including services and staff, volume of patients, and advanced technologies.