Optimizing Asthma Diagnosis and Management for Both Physicians and Patients

Asthma is a chronic, inflammatory airway disease affecting approximately 22 million people in the US, alone. (CDC, 2014) Although asthma sufferers’ quality of life has improved, disease diagnosis and management continue to be suboptimal and thus poses challenges for both clinicians and patients. Exacerbations and improper use of controller medications add to the existing expense of managing a chronic disease. Furthermore, the disease is generally not static in the same individual over time. This necessitates periodic evaluations to adjust treatments and improve patient outcomes. Many practitioners are also lacking in asthma action plan development in conjunction with their patients. This activity will review strategies for assessing and managing asthma and patient education strategies.

Upon completion of this activity, participants will be able to:
-Outline recommendations for the application of spirometry in the diagnosis and assessment of asthma
-Discuss current and emerging pharmacologic approaches for initiating and adjusting therapy based on asthma severity and level of control
-Implement patient-centered strategies encompassing individualized treatment approaches and patient expectations
-Improve patient-clinician communication surrounding asthma symptom control and self-management strategies