Asthma self-management plan system of care

The development of self-management plans arose as clinicians tried to design better methods by which they could deliver asthma care and reduce the significant mortality and morbidity associated with this disease. The basic principles that resulted have been widely endorsed, with self-management plans now being considered essential in the long term management of adult asthma. Self-management plans essentially focus on the early recognition of unstable or deteriorating asthma, by monitoring peak flow or symptoms. Through the use of written guidelines, patients are then able to determine when it is necessary to adjust therapy or obtain medical assistance. The use of self-management plans by patients with asthma has been shown to lead to improvements in asthma morbidity and a reduced requirement for acute medical treatment and hospital admission. However, it is acknowledged that more research is needed to clarify many different issues concerning their structure and implementation. Many different systems of asthma self-management have now been developed, reflecting different management and educational practices. It is apparent that the needs of all patients cannot be met through the use of one particular version. Whatever plan is employed, the written guidelines need to reflect the health care system and cultural needs of the respective community in which it is introduced and must be tailored to meet the specific needs of individual patients.