Policy Gaps and Health Plan Barriers Are Failing COPD Patients

COPD Action Alliance calls for greater federal leadership, awareness campaigns, and insurance reform to improve care for 30 million Americans

WASHINGTON, Oct. 14, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The COPD Action Alliance today released a new white paper, COPD in America and the Road to Better Care, outlining the urgent need for federal policymakers to recognize chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or COPD, as a public health crisis in America.

The disease affects an estimated 30 million Americans; it is the sixth leading cause of death and imposes more than $30 billion in annual direct medical costs. A number that is projected to double by 2029. Americans living with COPD can expect medical costs to be over $4,000 per year.

This year, the World Health Organization adopted the Lung Health Resolution to address chronic respiratory diseases, including COPD. The resolution elevated COPD as a global health priority, but more action is needed to turn commitments into progress.

"COPD is a critical policy issue," said Sarah Hoffman, director of the COPD Action Alliance. "We need stronger federal coordination, better research investments and common-sense insurance reforms so that people living with COPD aren't left behind when breakthrough treatments become available."

Key Findings from the White Paper:

• Delayed Diagnosis: Half of people living with COPD remain undiagnosed, limiting treatment options and worsening outcomes.
• Insurance Barriers: Nearly one-third report hurdles like prior authorization, step therapy or lack of coverage.
• Rural & At-Risk Populations: Veterans, first responders, rural residents and those with occupational exposures face higher risks and fewer resources.
• Stigma: Association with smoking fuels stigma that discourages people from reporting symptoms or seeking care, especially for those who have never smoked.
• Underfunded Research: COPD remains severely underfunded relative to its prevalence and mortality burden.

The COPD Action Alliance urges federal policymakers to take bold, immediate action, including:

• Full implementation of the NIH's National COPD Action Plan
• Increased funding for COPD research and education
• Removing insurance barriers such as prior authorization and step therapy
• Expanding access to care in underserved and rural communities
• Establishing national standards to track progress and hold systems accountable

To read the full white paper, visit: https://copdactionalliance.org.

SOURCE COPD Action Alliance