COPD is an increasing health issue worldwide with many contributing factors. Two of these main factors include environmental and socioeconomic. It has been found that individuals of lower socioeconomic status and those who use tobacco have an increased prevalence of COPD diagnoses. To combat and reduce these risks certain actions have been proposed. The first action includes value-based insurance plans and increased coverage on prescription drugs with Medicare Part D. The second action includes education on risks involving tobacco use and resources for tobacco cessation.