Comment: A Cochrane systematic review identified the beneficial effects of planned asthma management and education that includes a written action plan.1 These findings have now been adapted for primary care and implemented as the Asthma 3+ Visit Plan. This involves a systematic assessment of asthma symptoms, lung function, and current treatment at each visit. Treatment and management skills are optimised and the patient is given written instructions on how and when to increase treatment when asthma deteriorates (a written action plan).
Correspondence: mdpgg@mail.newcastle.edu.au
- 1. Gibson PG, Coughlan J, Wilson AJ, et al. The effects of self-management education and regular practitioner review in adults with asthma. The Cochrane Library, Issue 4, 1998. Oxford, Update Software.
- 2. Toelle BG, Ram FSF. Written individualised management plans for asthma in children and adults. The Cochrane Library, Issue 3, 2002. Oxford, Update Software.
- 3. Rothwell PM. Why do clinicians sometimes find it difficult to use the results of systematic reviews in routine clinical practice? Eval Health Prof 2002; 25: 200-209.
- 4. Ezzo J, Bausell B, Moerman DE, et al. Reviewing the reviews. How strong is the evidence? How clear are the conclusions? Int J Technol Assess Health Care 2001; 17: 457-466.
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