Transforming Interstitial Lung Disease Care Through Collaboration

Interstitial Lung Disease (ILD) refers to a diverse group of lung disorders caused by inflammation that damages pulmonary tissues. Autoimmune disease frequently causes ILD, and if left untreated, it can result in chronic shortness of breath, cough, reduced exercise capacity, and a need for supplemental oxygen. To address the complexities of these diseases and their management, AHN launched its Center of Excellence in Autoimmune Lung Disease in 2022. Its mission is to deliver streamlined, patient-centered, multidisciplinary care.

Combining specialties for better ILD outcomes

Located at AHN West Penn Hospital, the AHN Center of Excellence in Autoimmune Lung Disease offers a specialized, multidisciplinary approach tailored for patients with autoimmune-related or treatment-resistant ILD. The clinic's design facilitates comprehensive evaluation and treatment by enabling patients to consult with multiple specialists in a single visit. Referrals from PCPs, pulmonologists, or rheumatologists are welcome for second opinions or for patients seeking to establish long-term care within the center.

Patients meet with AHN Rheumatologist Joanna Marco, MD, and AHN Pulmonary and Critical Care Specialist Briana DiSilvio, MD, who work collaboratively to assess patients, review diagnostics, and create individualized treatment plans. Patients undergo a thorough autoimmune and pulmonary workup, including serologic testing, CT scans, and pulmonary function testing.

A dedicated multidisciplinary ILD team supports the continuum of care, including:

• Nurse navigators
• Clinical pharmacists
• Nutritionists
• Behavioral health specialists

The collaborative ILD group ensures patients clearly understand their next steps in care, from medication review to scheduling follow-up tests and appointments.

“This center began as a partnership between rheumatology and pulmonology to find innovative ways to care for this complex patient population,” said Dr. DiSilvio. “The clear demand for the program has helped it evolve into a robust resource for patients who may otherwise have a challenging and segmented care experience.”

Proving success, expanding reach

The program’s collaborative model has led to measurable improvements in patient outcomes since its launch:

• 74% of patients achieved stable or improved CT chest findings¹.
• The number of patients dependent on chronic prednisone dropped from 27.9% to 13.1%¹.
• 39% of patients had their diagnosis changed or refined².
• 49% of people received a recommendation for a change in their immunosuppression or change in their antifibrotic therapy².

“These results are a testament to a complete care model,” said Dr. DiSilvio. “Patients benefit in more ways than one. It’s more convenient, less stressful, and all their doctors have easy access to up-to-date and consistent information about their health.”

Building on this success, AHN has expanded the Autoimmune Lung Disease clinic model to AHN Jefferson Hospital. There are future plans for development of a clinic at both AHN Forbes and AHN Saint Vincent Hospitals so more patients can benefit from this streamlined, multidisciplinary approach.

How to refer

If you and your patient are navigating a complex lung condition, experts at AHN are ready to work with you to create a comprehensive, convenient treatment plan. Contact the AHN Center of Excellence in Autoimmune Lung Disease at 833-242-8246 to speak with a nurse navigator and make a referral.