British model would significantly improve patient care

Asthma

29 Oct 2015

People with respiratory conditions would be better protected from flare-ups if Australia followed Britain’s lead and introduced a system that regularly reviewed people with asthma and COPD, specialists say.

A similar system introduced in the United Kingdom has triggered a 20 per cent drop in severe flare-ups, says Professor Carol Armour, Executive Director, Woolcock Institute of Medical Research.

“It’s these most severe exacerbations that cause the most significant burden to individuals and society,” Professor Armour says. “To make such a huge improvement here is going to improve the lives of thousands of Australians and save the health sector a lot of money.”

The Woolcock has invited the founder of the British system, Professor David Price, to present the Ann Woolcock Lecture on Thursday, 29 October at 5.30pm, at the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research headquarters in Glebe, Sydney.

Professor Price says Optimum Patient Care works with 600 primary care practices and supports the care of over two million patients including 600,000 with respiratory disease.

According to Professor Armour the model is one Australia could mimic with great results.

“By providing such a review for Australian patients our GPs will be better enabled to help patients better manage their condition,” she says.

RSVP to [email protected] or phone 02 9114 0408.

Already a member?

Login to keep reading.

OR
Email me a login link