September 25 is World Lung Day, a global initiative that raises awareness about the importance of lung health and the prevention and management of respiratory diseases.
What are Certified Respiratory Educators? (CREs)
HFHT’s Certified Respiratory Educators (CREs) support patients living with asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and help them better understand and manage their respiratory health.
Whether you’re experiencing new symptoms, have recently been diagnosed, or are looking for support to manage an existing condition, a Respiratory Educator can help.
Common reasons to see a Respiratory Educator include:
- Assessment of respiratory symptoms
- Spirometry testing to measure lung function
- Asthma and COPD education
- Support to improve symptom management and quality of life
- Smoking cessation support, including enrollment in the STOP Program
What can you expect?
Respiratory Educators provide personalized education and support to help patients better understand their lung health. Through spirometry testing, patients can learn how their lungs are functioning and gain practical strategies to better manage symptoms, medications, and lifestyle factors that impact breathing.
As Mary Dunn, Respiratory Educator with HFHT, explains:
“As a Respiratory Educator, I conduct spirometry testing and provide education for patients with asthma or Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD). Helping patients understand how their lung function is affected by their respiratory disease supports better symptom control through optimized treatment and meaningful lifestyle changes.”
Two ways we can support you
1. Register for the free Quit Smoking group
The Quit Smoking group is a supportive program led by a Pharmacist and Certified Respiratory Educator for individuals who are interested in reducing or quitting smoking.
Participants receive:
- Education on smoking cessation and quit-smoking options
- Peer support from others on a similar journey
- Access to free Nicotine Replacement Therapy (when eligible)
- Additional tools and resources to support long-term success
This group is free and open to the public.
2. Talk with your doctor or healthcare provider about one-on-one appointments
For most one-on-one respiratory education appointments, a referral from your doctor or healthcare provider is required. Your provider must be part of the Hamilton Family Health Team.
This World Lung Day, take a moment to prioritize your lung health. Whether you’re managing a respiratory condition, concerned about breathing symptoms, or ready to quit smoking, support is available to help you breathe easier and live well.