In this article the authors review current evidence and guidance for the treatment of Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) to bring up to date the Primary Care Respiratory Society (PCRS) consensus approach and algorithm first published in 2017 and then again in 2023 known as ‘Keeping it Simple’.
A multi-media tool to illustrate the impact of respiratory disease on other body systems. Press play and click the icons to learn more. Each section has an introduction in the top left icon.
For an inhaler to be effective, the correct drug must be prescribed and the device must be used correctly.
Triple therapy for patients with COPD refers to the combination of long-acting muscarinic antagonists (LAMA), long- acting beta2 agonists (LABA) and inhaled corticosteroids (ICS). Given the small but increased risk of pneumonia for patients prescribed ICS, it is essential that such treatment is only prescribed for patients likely to derive a clinical benefit.
The Primary Care Respiratory Society UK (PCRS) is increasingly alarmed by the widespread and accelerating loss of respiratory leadership, expertise and strategic capacity across Integrated Care Boards (ICBs), regional NHS structures, and Primary Care Networks (PCNs).
Respiratory disease and frailty should be considered jointly when caring for this vulnerable group of patients. Respiratory disease contributes to frailty and frailty must be considered when managing respiratory disease, in conjunction with other comorbidities, psychological and social issues.
The Primary Care Respiratory Society (PCRS) recognises that short-term respiratory admissions can be reduced but not always entirely avoided. These admissions occur when patients require hospital-based stabilisation, diagnosis or treatment which is not otherwise available to them in primary care. In line with the 10-Year health plan for England: Fit for the future, PCRS supports patient care in the community and care delivered closer to home.
Since the publication of the Darzi Report and the new NHS 10-year Health Plan: Fit for the Future, there has been an increased focus on the delivery of Neighbourhood Health to reinforce integrated care and facilitate joined-up working between primary, secondary, community and social care.In anticipation of this new healthcare landscape, PCRS is working to place respiratory care, specifically chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), at the forefront of Neighbourhood Health delivery and use it: