SELF MANAGEMENT EDUCATION IN ASTHMA AND COPD: WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE AND DOES IT WORK?

Abstract

Major advances have been made in the delivery of care and outcomes for those with asthma and COPD

over the last few decades. However, much of that progress represents the success of the pharmaceutical

industry in producing and promoting efficacious medications. Further improvements in outcomes for those

with common lung diseases is only likely to occur if doctors embrace the wider non-prescription elements

of care with such elements including everything from enhanced communication, shared decision making,

self-management support, pulmonary rehabilitation and easier and more convenient follow up.

This review concerns one vital element of that wider package of care, namely self-management support.