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Assessment of a community pharmacy-based program for patients with asthma
M Cordina1, J C McElnay, C M Hughes
1Department of Pharmacy, University of Malta, Msida.
Pharmacotherapy
|October 17, 2001
Summary
A community pharmaceutical care program improved asthma patients' quality of life and inhaler technique. This asthma management approach also positively impacted peak expiratory flow (PEF) and reduced hospitalizations.
Area of Science:
- Pharmaceutical care
- Respiratory medicine
- Public health
Background:
- Asthma management requires continuous patient support and education.
- Community pharmacies can play a vital role in delivering patient-centered care.
- Optimizing asthma control in community settings remains a challenge.
Purpose of the Study:
- To implement and evaluate a community-based pharmaceutical care program for asthma patients.
- To assess the program's impact on health-related quality of life, lung function, and adherence.
Main Methods:
- Prospective, randomized controlled trial involving community-dwelling asthma patients.
- Intervention group received comprehensive asthma education and monitoring.
- Control group received standard pharmacy dispensing services.
Main Results:
- Improved health-related quality of life in the intervention group at 12 months (p=0.044).
- Significant decrease in peak expiratory flow (PEF) in controls compared to intervention patients (p=0.009).
- Enhanced inhaler technique and fewer hospitalizations in the intervention group.
Conclusions:
- Community-based pharmaceutical care is well-received by asthma patients.
- The program positively influenced patient vitality, inhaler technique, and PEF.
- This model demonstrates a beneficial approach to asthma management in the community.