Managing Chronic Conditions with Confidence
How Pikeville Medical Center Supports Long-Term Health Year-Round
Living with a chronic condition requires ongoing care, careful planning and reliable support—especially during the fall and winter months when illnesses such as RSV, influenza (flu) and COVID-19 are more common. At Pikeville Medical Center (PMC), our teams are committed to helping patients manage chronic diseases safely, effectively and with confidence, no matter the season.
According to national and regional trends, respiratory illnesses tend to rise as temperatures drop and people spend more time indoors. For individuals living with chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, COPD or other respiratory illnesses, these seasonal surges can increase the risk of complications. That’s why proactive care and consistent medication management are more important than ever.
Supporting Patients with Chronic Respiratory Conditions
Conditions like chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), emphysema and chronic bronchitis can make breathing difficult year-round—but cold, dry air and respiratory infections often worsen symptoms during the winter months. Individuals with chronic lung disease are encouraged to stay up to date on recommended vaccinations, including flu, COVID-19 and RSV vaccines when eligible, to help reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization.
PMC Pulmonology providers work closely with patients to develop personalized care plans, monitor symptoms and adjust treatments as needed. Patients are also encouraged to:
Take medications exactly as prescribed
Use inhalers correctly and consistently
Avoid smoke, strong fumes and cold outdoor air
Keep rescue inhalers nearby and maintain an action plan
Early intervention can help prevent flare-ups from becoming emergencies. Anyone experiencing worsening shortness of breath, coughing or wheezing should contact their healthcare provider promptly.
Pharmacy Services That Put Patients First
Medication management plays a vital role in chronic disease care. PMC’s Outpatient and Specialty Pharmacies are designed to make managing prescriptions easier, safer and more convenient for patients across Eastern Kentucky.
Our pharmacy teams take the time to listen, answer questions and ensure patients understand their medications and treatment plans. Services include:
Convenient outpatient pharmacy access with medication assistance options
Drive-thru pharmacy services with three lanes and a credit/debit payment kiosk, ideal for patients with mobility challenges or those feeling unwell
Specialty Pharmacy services for complex or rare conditions requiring medications not typically stocked in retail pharmacies
Home delivery options (within the 41501 area code) to help reduce exposure during peak illness seasons
Script Sync, a prescription coordination program that helps align refill dates when possible, reducing unnecessary trips to the pharmacy
These services help patients stay on track with their care while minimizing stress and interruptions to daily life.
Tips for Living Well with a Chronic Condition
Managing a chronic illness goes beyond medications alone. PMC encourages patients to take a whole-person approach to health, especially during the holiday and winter seasons:
Stay current on vaccinations
Practice good hand hygiene and avoid contact with those who are sick
Maintain a healthy diet and stay physically active when possible
Attend regular checkups and follow recommended care plans
Ask questions—your healthcare and pharmacy teams are here to help
Here for You, Every Step of the Way
At Pikeville Medical Center, chronic disease management is about more than treatment—it’s about partnership, education and long-term support. Whether you’re managing a respiratory condition, diabetes, heart disease or another chronic illness, PMC offers the expertise and services you need to stay healthy and independent.
For more information about PMC Pharmacy Services, visit www.pmcky.org/pharmacy or call 606-430-3576.
To schedule an appointment with a PMC provider, visit www.pmcky.org/appointments.