National strategy to transform respiratory disease care

A new strategy to transform the care, quality of life and health outcomes for people with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) will drive improvements in outcomes for patients.

Coordinating the efforts of the NHS, patients, social care and voluntary organisations, the strategy aims to can people avoid lung disease and to lead longer and healthier lives.

The strategy will promote:

• Respiratory health and good lung health
• Early accurate diagnosis
• Active partnership between healthcare professionals and people with COPD/asthma
• Chronic disease management (and good control of symptoms)
• Targeted evidence-based treatment for the individual

Everyone affected by COPD and asthma can also expect to have a care planning discussion with their healthcare professional. This will allow individuals to personalise their care and plan their lung health on an ongoing basis so that they can identify any problems and seek help before their symptoms worsen.

The Outcomes Strategy identifies six objectives that will drive work to transform respiratory care within the health and social care system. These are:

• Better prevention of COPD
• Reducing premature death
• Improving quality of life
• Improving safe and effective care
• Reducing the impact of asthma
• Reducing inequalities in access to and quality of services

http://healthandcare.dh.gov.uk/national-strategy-to-transform-respiratory-disease-care/