A Breath of Fresh Air: Updates in Asthma and COPD for Primary Care

Project Partners

Dr. Mohit Bhutani (University of Alberta, Division of Pulmonary Medicine)

Dr. Katherine (Kasia) Malczyk (Leduc Beaumont Devon Primary Care Network - PCN)

Dr. Dayna Lee-Baggley (Registered Clinical Psychologist)

Northern Alberta Primary Care Research Network (NAPCReN)

Background

Asthma and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) are two of the most prevalent respiratory conditions, placing a significant burden on the healthcare system and affecting patient well-being. Smoking exacerbates these conditions, complicating both disease management and patient outcomes. Building on earlier work from the Breathe Easy project, this webinar series focuses on the latest guidelines for the screening, management, and referral of asthma and COPD, addressing critical gaps in primary care and providing resources for improving care delivery.

Aims/Objectives

Review the latest guidelines for screening, managing, and referring asthma and COPD patients.

Address gaps in primary care related to asthma and COPD management.

Provide evidence-based resources for healthcare professionals, including a Pearls for Practice document.

Support smoking cessation efforts to improve patient outcomes.

Share insights from Northern Alberta Primary Care Research Network (NAPCReN) data to inform clinical practice.

Findings/Summary

The first session of the webinar series, led by Dr. Mohit Bhutani, addressed critical issues in the management of asthma and COPD. Dr. Katherine Malczyk provided insights into primary care gaps, while Dr. Dayna Lee-Baggley discussed strategies for smoking cessation to improve patient health outcomes. The webinars feature data from NAPCReN, showcasing smoking status data from clinics across Northern Alberta. A Pearls for Practice document was provided to help physicians assess and advance their practices. The sessions were well-received, with 331 registrants receiving recordings and supporting resources for ongoing asynchronous learning. The remaining sessions will continue in 2024-25.

Conclusions/Outcomes/Impact/Implications

This webinar series enhances healthcare providers' understanding of asthma and COPD management, addressing key gaps in primary care. By incorporating smoking cessation strategies and sharing valuable regional data, the sessions support improved patient outcomes. The availability of recorded sessions and resources ensures continued learning, making it easier for healthcare providers to integrate new practices into their work and improve the quality of care for respiratory patients.