THE LAUNCH of a new community service means patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) will be able to receive help and support closer to home.
The condition affects more than 8,000 people in the county and requires long term medical input.
Patients will now be able to attend assessment and treatment clinics in their area instead of having to go to hospital.
Respiratory teams will be working in the community to provide personalised and specialist care.