Breathing Easier: How Respiratory Therapy Helps Patients Manage COPD and More
By Jackie Quintero, CRT, Manager of Respiratory Services
Pershing Health System
When it comes to chronic lung conditions like COPD, asthma, or even lingering effects of COVID-19, breathing can become something many patients struggle with every single day. At Pershing Health System, the Respiratory Services Department is dedicated to helping individuals breathe easier, regain confidence in daily activities, and feel supported every step of the way.
“COPD may not be curable, but with the right support and therapy, patients can live fuller, more active lives,” says Jackie Quintero, CRT, Manager of Respiratory Services at PHS. “Our job is to help them breathe better—one day at a time.”
Respiratory therapy is a vital part of treatment for anyone diagnosed with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD), asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, and other breathing disorders. At Pershing Health System, our respiratory team provides a wide range of therapies—from oxygen support and nebulizer treatments to one-on-one education about inhaler use and home care. Patients also receive pulmonary function testing (PFTs), which help us understand how well the lungs are working and guide decisions about treatment. The ultimate goal is to ease symptoms, prevent flare-ups, and help each person live as independently and actively as possible.
“When patients first hear they have a lung disease, it can be overwhelming,” Jackie explains. “Our role is to give them hope, practical tools, and a clear path forward.”
In addition to respiratory therapy, Pershing Health System also offers sleep studies to evaluate sleep-related breathing disorders such as sleep apnea. These overnight studies, performed in a comfortable, private room within the hospital, monitor your breathing, oxygen levels, and sleep patterns to determine if your symptoms—like daytime fatigue, loud snoring, or restless sleep—could be due to disrupted breathing. Left untreated, sleep apnea can contribute to heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, and chronic fatigue. Sleep studies are another way PHS is committed to identifying and treating conditions that impact not only your breathing but your long-term health and energy levels.
“Sleep issues and breathing problems often go hand in hand,” Jackie says. “We want patients to know there’s help for both—and it starts with a conversation.”
While COPD is one of the most common reasons patients are referred to Respiratory Services, it’s far from the only one. Jackie and her team also help people manage asthma, recovering from pneumonia, navigating long-term COVID symptoms, or adjusting to home oxygen. From children with respiratory flare-ups to seniors learning to manage chronic lung conditions, Pershing’s approach is always tailored to the patient.
“Every breath matters—whether we’re helping a child with asthma or an adult recovering from COVID, we tailor our care to each person’s unique needs,” Jackie adds.
If you or a loved one is experiencing frequent coughing, shortness of breath, wheezing, or fatigue—don’t wait. The earlier you seek care, the better your chances of managing the condition effectively and improving your quality of life.
“Helping patients feel like themselves again is the best part of my job,” Jackie says. “Sometimes it’s not just about breathing—it’s about feeling hope again.”
Need help managing your breathing or lung health?
Contact your primary care provider at Community Medical Associates (660-258-1050) or Meadville Medical Clinic (660-938-4213) to schedule an evaluation. For questions about Respiratory Services or sleep studies at Pershing Health System, call 660-258-1123.
