Patient Perceptions of Switching to a Generic Dry Powder Inhaler - Increased Understanding Through Journey Mapping.

Area of Science:

• Respiratory Medicine
• Patient-Reported Outcomes

Background:

• Dry powder inhalers (DPIs) are essential for managing respiratory conditions like COPD and asthma.
• Generic substitution of DPIs is increasingly common, raising questions about patient acceptance and perceptions.
• Understanding patient attitudes towards generic DPIs is vital for successful treatment adherence and healthcare policy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore patients' attitudes and perceptions regarding generic dry powder inhaler (DPI) substitution for their prescribed brand product.
• To assess patient views on the quality, efficacy, design, and usability of generic DPIs compared to brand-name devices.

Main Methods:

• A qualitative study involving focus groups with 40 patients (COPD and asthma) actively using a brand DPI.
• Participants engaged in a journey mapping exercise simulating an unexpected generic DPI substitution.
• Thematic analysis was performed on audio recordings and transcriptions of the focus groups.

Main Results:

• Patients experienced mixed emotions, including relief over cost savings but also confusion and frustration regarding unexpected generic DPI substitution.
• Concerns about usability, correct usage, and efficacy of generic DPIs were prevalent, leading to anticipated anxiety.
• While most participants preferred the brand DPI's design and ease of use, potential cost savings remained a significant factor in their decision-making.

Conclusions:

• Unexpected generic DPI substitution elicits varied patient responses, highlighting concerns about device differences and efficacy.
• Patients desire active participation in healthcare discussions and decisions regarding the sameness and substitution of DPIs.
• Addressing patient concerns and involving them in the decision-making process is essential for the acceptance of generic DPIs.