Background:

Spirometry was paused in primary care during the pandemic, resulting in a 51% reduction in COPD diagnoses in 2022, and it is likely that it has impacted the diagnosis of some other lung conditions.

For a number of reasons, the restart of spirometry has been extremely patchy. While there is no data available on this issue (which is itself part of the problem), we know that in some areas there is now very little activity, although other areas have successfully restarted spirometry. We also know that there were problems pre-pandemic with quality assured spirometry being accurately and uniformly performed as part of diagnosing certain lung diseases, such as asthma and COPD.

We are hearing from Taskforce for Lung Health members that there are still many issues with restarting spirometry locally across England.

Aim:

This Zoom workshop aims to identify the current barriers to restarting spirometry in primary care within the NHS in England, explore clinical best practice solutions and longer term policy solutions.

By focusing attention on this issue, we aim to consider solutions for both the historic, pre-pandemic issues, as well as those caused by the pandemic. This event will also discuss future issues, such as coordination with CDCs.

Audience:

This 3 hour Zoom webinar is designed to take place in two halves, including a comfort break and the opportunity to ask questions.

The first half aims to address the current barriers to restarting spirometry, and explore clinical best practice solutions. This will be more relevant to clinical attendees.

The second half aims to address longer term policy solutions. This will be more relevant to policymakers.

Anyone who is interested is welcome to attend all or part of the event.

Accessibility:

This event will take place via Zoom Webinar. Details are provided at the point of registration.

Closed captions will be available at this event.

Agenda:

This webinar will cover:

  • Problems and barriers to restarting spirometry after COVID-19. Please fill out the survey here to tell us your experience.
  • Experiences of people with lung conditions about the impact of having spirometry, or where this is lacking.
  • Mythbusting on accreditation issues,with input from the Association for Respiratory Technology & Physiology (ARTP).
  • Short term solutions for restarting spirometry in clinical practice: practical and solution focused case studies and best practice examples.
  • Other issues such as: estates and spaces, infection prevention and control, commissioning, and workforce related issues e.g. indemnity and training.
  • An update on national guidance from NHS England.
  • Longer term policy solutions:e.g. the role of community diagnostic centres (CDCs) and the need for data.
  • Financial Incentives: e.g. local enhanced services.

Panellists confirmed to date:

(Further updates to follow).

  • Carol Stonham, Respiratory nurse, NHS Gloucestershire Integrated Care Board (ICB), NHS England South West Respiratory Network Clinical Co-Lead.
  • Dr Steve Holmes, The Park Medical Practice, Shepton Mallet.
  • Andrew Ellis, Senior Health Data Analyst, Taskforce for Lung Health.
  • Katy Brown, Asthma + Lung UK storyteller and expert by experience.
  • Peter Bryce, Chairman, Pulmonary Fibrosis Trust and Member of the Taskforce for Lung Health.
  • Joanna Purvis, Clinical Service Lead for Respiratory, sleep and upper GI Physiology services, Cardio- Respiratory Department, George Eliot Hospital NHS Trust, and Association for Respiratory Technology & Physiology (ARTP) Spirometry Chair.
  • Dr Murugesan Raja, GP, Hope Citadel, and Clinical Lead, Primary Care, Respiratory Medicine, Greater Manchester and Eastern Cheshire Strategic Clinical Network.
  • Rachel Lord, Clinical Project Manager, London Respiratory Clinical Network (LRCN).
  • Dr Irem Patel, London Respiratory Clinical Network (LRCN).
  • Dr Sarah Elkin, London Respiratory Clinical Network (LRCN).
  • Mark Dinsdale, Senior Programme Manager (Respiratory), NHS England.
  • Amy Taylor-Gonzalez, Physiological Science Implementation Lead for National Diagnostics Transformation Programme, NHS England and Respiratory Clinical Scientist.