The Effectiveness of Some Chronic Pulmonary Management Units for Patients with COPD and Asthma in Vietnam

Abstract

Introduction: Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases are chronic diseases and have high mortality rates in Vietnam and other countries. The chronic pulmonary disease Management Unit is a management model connecting inpatient and outpatient treatment for asthma and COPD patients. Patients receive long-term management and full consultation to share experiences and be provided with necessary information about the disease. The main purpose was to evaluate the effectiveness of the unit for patients with COPD and asthma in Vietnam.

Material and Methods: A Combined cross-sectional study and retrospective longitudinal study were conducted on 310 COPD and asthma patients at Hai Duong, Bac Giang, Thai Nguyen. The questionnaires included 30 questions with two sections including sociodemographic data and using management and treatment services.

Results: After 24 months of management and treatment, knowledge of the disease, medicine use, symptoms, range of activities, eating, sleeping status, and disease control of patients were improved better. For ACT score, the points increased by 2.1 points, 3.4 points, and 4 points, respectively. For the CAT score, the point reduced by 3.7 points, 6.4 points, and 9.1 points, respectively. Improved severe breathlessness efficiency index from 0.6% at 6 months to 9.5% after 24 months.

Conclusion: Our findings suggest that the government needs to invest in facilities, equipment, and human resources to maintain and replicate the model nationwide to help patients receive timely management and treatment, contributing to reducing treatment costs and improving the quality of life for asthma and COPD patients.