AN innovative project which aims to help people with breathing problems is being piloted in Redditch.

It is hoped the project will enabling patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) to improve how they monitor their condition.

The focus of the pilot project is to implement mobile technology support for COPD patients.

During the 12-month pilot, a small group of patients will be provided with remote monitoring devices so they can take a more active role in their care and self-management of their condition.

Dr Richard Burling, local GP and Kingfisher neighbourhood team GP lead, said: “This pilot offers an exciting opportunity to look at the use of mobile technology to enhance the management of patients with COPD in our community.

“The Redditch area particularly, has a high number of patients registered with COPD and we hope the approach taken will pick up deterioration in a patient’s condition at an earlier stage, enabling timely, effective and efficient interventions.

“We also believe it will promote self care with improved understanding and education of their condition.”