Join Us for Living Better Together® 

There is still time to register for Respiratory Health Association’s 2026 Living Better Together® Conference on Thursday, November 19! 

Living Better Together brings patients, caregivers, healthcare professionals, and advocates together for a day of COPD and chronic lung disease education. This year’s conference includes an Ask the Provider session and six breakout sessions covering topics including airway clearance, medication updates and biologics, diabetes and COPD, anxiety, energy conservation, and Tai Chi. 

Thursday, November 19, 2026 | 9:00 AM–3:00 PM 

Meridian Banquet & Conference Center | Rolling Meadows, IL 

Understanding Prior Authorization and COPD 

If you have COPD, you may encounter prior authorization requirements when filling prescriptions or accessing treatments such as inhalers, oxygen, or pulmonary rehabilitation. Prior authorization means your insurance company needs additional information before approving coverage, which can sometimes delay care. 

If you experience challenges getting a medication or treatment approved, contact your healthcare provider right away. You can also ask your insurance company why coverage was denied, talk with your pharmacist about potential solutions, and keep copies of any insurance paperwork. Most importantly, do not stop or change your COPD treatment without first speaking with your healthcare provider. Keeping your healthcare team informed can help you navigate the process and get the care you need. 

Ask the Provider: Seasonal Vaccines 

Vaccines play an important role in protecting people with COPD from serious respiratory illnesses and flare-ups. Dr. Khalilah Gates of Northwestern Medicine recommends staying up to date on recommended vaccines, including flu, COVID-19, pneumonia, RSV, and Tdap. These vaccines can help reduce the risk of severe symptoms, hospitalization, and other complications. Dr. Gates notes that vaccines are generally safe, with mild side effects that usually resolve within a few days and that receiving multiple vaccines at the same time is often safe and effective. Encouraging family members and other close contacts to stay vaccinated can also help lower your exposure to infections and support your respiratory health. 

Enjoying the Holidays While Managing COPD 

The holidays are a wonderful time to connect with family and friends, enjoy traditions, and celebrate together. They can also bring added stress, fatigue, travel, and exposure to seasonal illnesses. With a little planning, you can enjoy the season while keeping your COPD symptoms under control. 

Remember to pace yourself, take breaks when needed, and focus on the traditions that matter most. Protect yourself from seasonal illnesses by washing your hands regularly, avoiding close contact with people who are sick, and staying up to date on recommended vaccinations. If you’re traveling, pack your medications, keep your rescue inhaler handy, and plan ahead for any oxygen needs. Most importantly, stay consistent with your treatment plan. Staying on track with medications and other treatments can help keep your COPD symptoms under control so you can focus on enjoying the holidays with family and friends.