Patient perspectives of inhaler technique checks in England (ID 364)
The Taskforce for Lung Health
Funding: None
Abstract
AimInhaler technique checks (ITCs) are key in enabling patients with lung conditions to benefit from their medication, reducing the risk of exacerbations and improving symptoms. The aims were to understand how many receive ITCs and the impact from a patient perspective.
Method
We conducted a survey from April to June 2021 promoted via the Asthma and Lung UK website and healthcare professionals. 1,042 people from England with a lung condition who used an inhaler responded.
Results
Respondents could report multiple conditions, 69% (n=723) had asthma, 33% (n=339) had COPD, and 22% (n=229) had other lung conditions. 9% (n=93) reported diagnoses of both asthma and COPD.
23% (n=233) reported they had never had, or do not remember ever having an ITC. Those from the most deprived third of areas were 1.5 times more likely to state this compared to the least third deprived of areas.
Of those that knew when their latest ITC was (n=988), 76% stated they had not had an ITC in the previous 12 months. Of those that remembered what happened at their last ITC, either remotely or face to face (n=664) 81% received verbal advice, 56% had correct technique demonstrated.
Of those responding on the helpfulness (n=642), 88% said it was at least somewhat helpful. 67% (n=454) reported a positive impact such as confidence, understanding or reduced exacerbations.
20% (n=134) reported not liking the checks due to embarrassment, feeling tested or being told how to use their inhaler.
Conclusion
The majority had not had a check within the last year even though most reported they were helpful. Steps must be taken to ensure patients have regular inhaler technique checks that are approached in a non-judgemental fashion. Community pharmacies could be commissioned and supported to provide this with a funded community pharmacy ITC and coaching service.
Conflicts of interest: Not for this piece of work but Darush Attar has previously received honoraria from manufacturers who make inhaler devices - Aspire, Astra Zeneca, Boehringer Ingelheim, Chiesi, Cipla, Glenmark, Glaxo Smith Kline, Orion, Teva, Trudell
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