Explore how EMJ and PARI GmbH worked together to address one of COPD care’s most persistent challenges: choosing the right inhalation device
By combining a three-click interactive selection tool with a robust evidence article and a realistic patient case study, EMJ developed a practical solution to help HCPs understand why device selection matters and apply it with confidence in everyday practice.
The challenge
An estimated 392 to 480 million people are currently living with COPD worldwide, with prevalence projected to approach 600 million by 2050. COPD remains a leading cause of death globally, accounting for approximately 3.5 million deaths in 2021.
Despite the central role of inhalation therapy, selecting the most appropriate device for an individual patient remains challenging. Technique errors, suboptimal peak inspiratory flow (PIF), impaired dexterity and device unfamiliarity can all compromise drug delivery, increase the risk of complications and negatively affect outcomes.
In response, EMJ set out to create a suite of interactive resources for PARI GmbH that would make evidence-based decision-making clearer, faster and more intuitive for busy clinicians. These resources bring together expert insight, practical guidance and real-world application.
The evidence
The first part of the project was an interactive interview featuring insight from Donald Mahler, a pulmonologist with extensive experience in COPD, based at Valley Regional Hospital in Claremont, New Hampshire, USA. The article guides readers through the key considerations in inhalation therapy, from device mechanics to patient-specific factors.
By presenting device differences and common challenges in an accessible, interactive format, the piece establishes a clear clinical rationale for device selection and highlights its impact on patient outcomes.
The application
Next an interactive case study was created to place readers in the centre of a realistic COPD scenario, reflecting the situations HCPs routinely manage in their day-to-day practice. Through step-by-step decision-making, readers explore symptom changes, technique issues and treatment choices, seeing in real time how different approaches influence clinical outcomes.
The format encourages active learning, reflection and quick application of the principles discussed in the article. It turns theory into practice, showing how device choice should match a patient’s abilities, physiology and preferences.
The tool
To support real-world consultations, EMJ also developed the ‘Device Selection Tool’, a streamlined interface designed to help clinicians identify suitable inhalation systems for individual patients. Using two parameters, PIF and cognitive or manual dexterity, the tool guides users to appropriate device options in three clicks.
Concise pop-ups provide clinically relevant context, outlining advantages, limitations and the rationale behind each recommendation. Accessible across desktop, tablet and mobile devices, the tool is designed to integrate into clinical workflows.
The solution has been well received by clinicians, with the client choosing to showcase it at the European Respiratory Society Congress. This reflects its usability and practical value in clinical settings.
The outcome
Each resource is effective on its own, but their combined impact is stronger. The interactive article builds understanding, the patient case study demonstrates real-world implications and the device selection tool supports confident, evidence-based decisions in everyday practice.
Together, they offer a connected, clinician-focused approach to improving COPD care.
