Using Video Telehealth to Facilitate Inhaler Training in Rural Patients with Obstructive Lung Disease

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Medicine
• Digital Health
• Patient Education

Background:

• Effective inhaler technique is crucial for managing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma.
• Many patients do not receive adequate instructions on proper inhaler use.
• This gap impacts drug delivery and symptom control.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness of video telehealth inhaler training for rural patients.
• To assess improvements in inhaler technique and patient satisfaction.
• To compare healthcare utilization before and after the training program.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective chart review of 74 rural patients undergoing pharmacist-led video telehealth inhaler training.
• Teach-to-goal (TTG) methodology used over three to four sessions.
• Inhaler technique assessed within and between visits; patient satisfaction and technical issues surveyed.

Main Results:

• 93% of patients completed training, showing significant improvements in technique for various inhaler types (p < 0.01).
• Improved technique was sustained at 2 months (p < 0.01).
• 94% patient satisfaction reported, despite common technical issues (63%) that were mostly overcome (87%).

Conclusions:

• Video telehealth inhaler training is well-accepted by patients.
• The TTG methodology via telehealth effectively improves inhaler technique in rural populations.
• This approach enhances access to essential inhaler education for COPD and asthma patients.