Advanced Respiratory Care (ARC) Program

Expert Care for Breathing Problems & Home Ventilation

The Advanced Respiratory Care (ARC) Program at the University of Chicago Medicine provides specialized care for people with serious breathing problems. We help patients who need advanced breathing support, including noninvasive ventilation (NIV) with respiratory assist devices (RADs) that provide bi-level positive airway pressure (BPAP) or via home ventilators, to improve their quality of life and stay out of the hospital.

Our team of experts works closely with patients and families, offering education and hands-on training to help them use respiratory equipment safely at home. Our goal is to help people breathe better, live longer, and stay as healthy as possible.

Who We Treat

We care for people with long-term breathing problems, including:

• Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD): A lung disease that makes it hard to breathe. We use BPAP via RADs or home ventilators to improve breathing, reduce hospital visits, and help patients feel better.
• Obesity Hypoventilation Syndrome (OHS): A condition where extra body weight makes breathing difficult, leading to low oxygen and high carbon dioxide levels. We adjust ventilator settings to help patients breathe better, improve heart health, and feel more energized.
• Neuromuscular Diseases (NMD): Conditions like ALS and muscular dystrophy weaken muscles, including those needed for breathing. We prescribe home ventilation to support breathing and improve comfort.
• Recovery After ICU (Post-ICU Care): Patients who needed breathing support in the hospital may struggle when they return home. We create personalized home ventilation plans to help with a smooth transition and avoid complications.
• Diaphragm Weakness & Paralysis: The diaphragm is the main muscle used for breathing. Some people, including those with chest injuries, nerve damage, or post-surgical issues, struggle with weak or paralyzed diaphragms. Our team offers advanced tests and treatments to help improve breathing.

How We Help

• Breathing Support (Home Ventilators & Non-Invasive Ventilation: BPAP, home ventilators): We customize home therapy settings to help patients breathe easier and sleep better.
• Mucus & Secretion Management: Devices like cough-assist machines, suction therapy, and high-frequency chest therapy help clear mucus and prevent lung infections.
• Remote Monitoring & Virtual Care: We track oxygen and carbon dioxide levels at home and provide virtual visits to adjust care early, preventing complications.
• Transition from Pediatric to Adult Care: We guide young adults with long-term breathing conditions as they move from pediatric to adult specialists, ensuring they continue to get the care they need.

Partnering with Patients & Families

We believe that education and support are key to successful home breathing care. Our team teaches patients and caregivers how to use ventilators and other respiratory devices confidently. We also provide ongoing follow-up care to help patients stay independent and active.