Lung Diseases Program - Services

The Asthma Centre provides a dynamic therapeutic approach to asthma management. Bringing together allergists, respirologists and asthma educators, the centre provides diagnosis, assessment, care and education for patients with asthma, aged 16 years and older living in Southwestern Ontario.

 We offer a unique service for asthma patients including:

• Consultation by respirology and allergy specialists
• Diagnostic testing
• Assessment
• Education with a certified asthma educator
• Follow-up as necessary
• Accommodation of urgent referrals

What is COPD?

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is an umbrella term used for a group of progressive lung conditions which cause changes to the airways (“bronchi” or “bronchial tubes”) as well as tiny air sacs at the end of the airways (“alveoli”). These conditions often lead to shortness of breath, cough, and excess mucous production. Your lung is like an upside-down tree. The trunk is the windpipe or “trachea,” the branches are the “bronchi,” and the leaves are the air sacs or “alveoli.”

The Pulmonary Function Lab, located within the outpatient area for the general respirology, COPD and asthma programs, is an important service used to assess/diagnose St. Joseph's patients as well as patients of physicians in the community. It provides: 

• Full pulmonary function testing
• Before and after bronchodilator testing
• Bronchoprovocation testing
• Education and teaching opportunities for multidisciplinary care team members, respiratory therapy and nursing students, residents, and patients for improved self-management.

The test results assist in the diagnosis of lung function impairment and evaluation of the effectiveness of treatment. Patients are instructed in the correct technique for using inhaled medications.

Known for a commitment to excellence in testing and quality assurance, the lab is one of a select few sites in Canada to participate in world-wide research studies.

To access the services of the Pulmonary Function Lab, a family physician or specialist must complete our referral form.

Respirology clinics provide consultative services for patients who have respiratory disease.

Physicians support the diagnosis and management of chronic lung conditions in the Asthma Centre and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and Rehabilitation Program.