Why you should read this article:

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To refresh your knowledge of the main symptoms of asthma, such as shortness of breath, wheeze and chest tightness

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To understand why a self-management plan should be offered to all patients with asthma

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To appreciate the benefits of identifying exacerbations of asthma and enabling early interventions

Asthma is one of the two most common chronic respiratory diseases diagnosed and treated in primary care and is the cause of most hospital admissions for chronic respiratory illness. The authors set up a pilot service review which used a digital platform to enable nurses to review participants’ peak flow entries and make therapeutic adjustments to treatment without the need for a face-to-face appointment. It also enabled the nurses to react quickly to any changes in patients’ peak flow readings or concerns. The objective of this pilot was to demonstrate how digital health technologies in primary care can enhance patient outcomes by improving their understanding of their condition, so that they can recognise early warning signs of exacerbations. By enhancing self-management, it was hoped that there would be a reduction in primary care contact and acute hospital interventions.