Nurse-Led Models of Care for Patients with COPD Including Rural, Regional or Remote Settings: A Scoping Review

Background/Objectives: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a progressive respiratory condition requiring integrated care; however, care fragmentation and limited healthcare access remain significant barriers, particularly in geographically dispersed regions. Nurse-led models of care may support care coordination and access to services for people with chronic illness. This scoping review explored the literature on nurse-led models of care for people living with COPD, with a particular focus on rural, regional, and remote populations. Methods: Five databases (EmBase, Informit, MEDLINE, CINAHL Ultimate, and Scopus) were searched on 9 July 2026. Using Covidence software, two researchers independently screened 116 records at title and abstract level, and 24 at full-text level. Data extraction was also completed independently by two researchers and data were synthesised using thematic analysis and narrative synthesis. Reporting of this scoping review was guided by The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-analyses extension for Scoping Reviews checklist. Results: Only six studies met the eligibility criteria and were included in this review. Studies described nurses’ roles and contributions, coordination, continuity, and patient engagement, while reported outcomes included clinical, psychosocial, and service-level impacts. Conclusions: Included studies reported favourable outcomes associated with continuity of care, patient experience, symptom management, self-management, and hospital utilisation. However, the heterogeneity and methodological characteristics of the available evidence preclude conclusions regarding effectiveness, causality, or an optimal nurse-led model of care.