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

Proper inhaler technique is important for effective drug delivery and symptom control in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma, yet not all patients receive inhaler instructions.

Using a retrospective chart review of participants in a video telehealth inhaler training program, the study compared inhaler technique within and between monthly telehealth visits and reports associated with patient satisfaction.

Seventy-four (N = 74) rural patients prescribed ≥1 inhaler participated in three to four pharmacist telehealth inhaler training sessions using teach-to-goal (TTG) methodology. Within and between visit inhaler technique scores are compared, with descriptive statistics of pre- and postprogram survey results including program satisfaction and computer technical issues. Healthcare utilization is compared between pre- and post-training periods.

Sixty-nine (93%) patients completed all three to four video telehealth inhaler training sessions. During the initial visit, patients demonstrated improvement in inhaler technique for metered dose inhalers (albuterol, budesonide/formoterol), dry powder inhalers (formoterol, mometasone, tiotropium), and soft mist inhalers (ipratropium/albuterol) (p < 0.01 for all). Improved inhaler technique was sustained at 2 months (p < 0.01). Ninety-four percent of participants were satisfied with the program. Although technical issues were common, occurring among 63% of attempted visits, most of these visits (87%) could be completed. There was no significant difference in emergency department visits and hospitalizations pre- and post-training.

This study demonstrated high patient acceptance of video telehealth training and objective improvement in inhaler technique.

Video telehealth inhaler training using the TTG methodology is a promising program that improved inhaler technique and access to inhaler teaching for rural patients with COPD or asthma.