A Breath of Fresh Air

Asthma affects about 2.3 million Australians, or 10 per cent of the population, but only a small proportion has a written asthma action plan.

Studies show there are information gaps for people with asthma in relation to medicines, managing asthma, trigger factors and latest research. Pharmacists are in an ideal position to close this information gap and play an important role in motivating people to take better control of their asthma and to correctly use their medicines.

To help improve health outcomes for asthma suffers and others with respiratory problems, pharmacies which are part of the Pharmaceutical Society of Australia’s Self Care program now have access to a new Action Kit entitled, A breath of fresh air.

The kit is part of a wide range of programs and activities being undertaken by PSA relating to respiratory health.  The activities coincide with the recent launch of the new Australian Asthma Handbook  by the National Asthma Council.

National President of the PSA, Grant Kardachi, said pharmacy was an important source of information, advice and support for people suffering from respiratory conditions such as asthma and/or COPD.

“The role of pharmacy in management of asthma and COPD should extend beyond the supply of prescriptions and verbal counselling,” Mr Kardachi said.

“It should include screening, demonstrating and regularly checking inhaler technique, checking adherence, checking for self management plans and advising about asthma management in pregnancy and breastfeeding.
“This Action Kit covers all these areas and more.”

The kit contains sections on in-store promotion, service delivery and education.

“The education section contains an in-store staff training presentation plus a community presentation to help spread the message about asthma management and treatment,” Mr Kardachi said.

“Another section covers the range of tools available to a pharmacy to help treat patients suffering from respiratory problems. “This Action Kit is an invaluable resource for any pharmacy.”

For more details of the Self Care program go to www.psa.org.au

Learn how more about asthma managment by completing the education module below.

Source: http://www.psa.org.au/news/action-kit-a-breath-of-fresh-air, Tuesday 8 April 2014