Managing asthma in general practice
People with asthma should receive regular education and support in the primary care context, within an effective partnership between the patient and suitably trained health professionals. Structured asthma reviews should be carried out at least annually in primary care, and personalized asthma action plans should be implemented for all patients. Pharmacological management of asthma involves ensuring that treatment is prescribed at an appropriate level, with titration where necessary, and, importantly, health professionals should confirm that patients are adept at taking their inhaled medication. Clinicians should address factors influencing the patient's condition—such as passive smoking and smoking cessation—identify allergenic triggers, and make appropriate referrals for patients' whose conditions are difficult to treat. Comprehensive treatment and advice should be tailored to the patient's individual needs, taking into account pertinent issues, such as personal health beliefs and the reasons for non-ad...