Breathe Easier with the North Star Health Alliance Pulmonary & Respiratory Care Team

At North Star Health Alliance, we believe every breath matters. Our Pulmonary and Respiratory Care Team is dedicated to helping patients across our community breathe easier and live fuller lives. Whether you’re coping with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), complicated chest infections, sleep apnea, or other lung and breathing disorders, our expert providers deliver compassionate, comprehensive care tailored to your needs.

Comprehensive Pulmonary and Respiratory Services

Our respiratory specialists offer a wide range of services to diagnose, treat, and manage both chronic and acute lung conditions. We combine advanced technology, evidence-based medicine, and personalized care to improve lung function, reduce symptoms, and enhance overall well-being.

Our services include:

• Pulmonary Function Testing (PFTs): Detailed assessments to measure how well your lungs are working and guide personalized treatment plans.
   

• Sleep Studies & Sleep Apnea Treatment: Overnight testing and care for sleep-related breathing disorders, including obstructive sleep apnea (OSA).
   

• Asthma & COPD Management: Comprehensive programs that include medication optimization, education, and pulmonary rehabilitation to reduce flare-ups and hospital visits.
   

• Bronchoscopy & Advanced Imaging: State-of-the-art diagnostic procedures for evaluating lung disease and airway conditions safely and effectively.
   

• Pulmonary Rehabilitation: Customized exercise, breathing techniques, and education to strengthen lung capacity and boost daily energy.
   

Our team collaborates closely with patients and families to ensure that each care plan supports both immediate relief and long-term respiratory health.

A Whole-Person, Patient-First Approach

At North Star Health Alliance, we take pride in offering community-centered pulmonary care that treats each patient as more than just their diagnosis. We understand that breathing problems affect every aspect of life — from physical activity and sleep to confidence and emotional well-being.

That’s why our respiratory therapists, nurses, and pulmonologists focus on the whole person. We take time to listen, educate, and involve you in every decision about your care. Our team also provides ongoing guidance to help you manage symptoms, prevent complications, and make lifestyle changes that support better lung health.

Meet Dr. Lee – Your Local Expert in Pulmonary Medicine

We're proud to introduce Dr. Francis Yei-Wei Lee, MD, MBBS, ABSM, ABIM (Pulmonary & Internal Medicine), FAASM, FCCP, our board-certified pulmonologist and leader of the North Star Health Alliance Pulmonary and Respiratory Program. With years of experience treating a wide range of respiratory conditions, Dr. Lee brings both deep clinical expertise and genuine compassion to every patient interaction.

Dr. Lee believes in empowering patients through knowledge and collaboration. His care philosophy emphasizes personalized treatment plans, preventive education, and the importance of early diagnosis for long-term success.

"I will meet you where you are, help you understand your condition, and support you through each change in your plan of care. Healing begins with empathy and grows with clear steps you can trust." - Dr. Lee

You can also hear directly from Dr. Lee on our YouTube channel, where he shares expert advice on lung health, early warning signs of respiratory conditions, and tips for improving daily breathing.

Advanced Technology, Local Care — and Guidance Every Step of the Way

At Claxton-Hepburn Medical Campus, a proud partner of NSHA, exceptional pulmonary and respiratory care rests on two vital foundations: advanced technology and personal guidance. Our facilities feature state-of-the-art diagnostic and monitoring tools that allow us to detect conditions early and tailor treatments precisely to each patient’s needs. From non-invasive testing to advanced imaging, our technology ensures faster diagnoses, more accurate results, and the most effective care possible—all delivered by a team committed to staying at the forefront of medical innovation.

But technology alone doesn't define great care—people do. That's why our Patient Navigator program is one of our most valued patient assets. Your Patient Navigator serves as a dedicated member of your care team, guiding you through every stage of your treatment journey, organizing appointments, explaining options, and connecting you with essential support resources. Whether you have questions about side effects or want to better understand your diagnosis, your navigator is here to provide clarity, comfort, and continuity of care.

Meet one of our valued Patient Navigators, Jessica Emmons! Jessica embodies the compassion, knowledge, and commitment that define our approach to patient-centered care. Through her guidance, patients gain not only a clearer understanding of their treatment but also the confidence to navigate their journey with support every step of the way.

Discover how Jessica and our Lung Navigator team make a difference in patients’ lives—watch our video to learn more about their impact. Watch on YouTube ▶️

At Claxton-Hepburn Medical Campus, advanced technology powers our care—but it’s our partnership with NSHA and the dedication of professionals like Jessica Emmons that make it truly personal.

Your Partners in Breathing and Wellness

At North Star Health Alliance, we believe that choosing the right care team can transform your respiratory health. Our specialists are more than medical providers — we’re your partners in better breathing, better health, and a better life.

Our patient-centered programs combine advanced clinical expertise with compassion and education, empowering you to take an active role in your care. Whether you're newly diagnosed or managing a chronic condition, we’re here to guide and support you every step of the way.

If you or someone you love is living with shortness of breath, chronic cough, or another lung concern, don’t wait to get the help you deserve. The North Star Health Alliance Pulmonary and Respiratory Care Team is ready to help you breathe easier and live better.

Call us today at 315-713-6778 to schedule your appointment with Dr. Lee or one of our experienced respiratory specialists.

Stronger lungs. Better sleep. Renewed energy. Let us help you breathe easier—starting today.