Somerset Respiratory Champion Programme

The Problem: Covering the health care community of 560k population with two district hospitals and 65 practices we identified a lack of support for respiratory clinicians working in the practices. They felt isolated and found it hard to get support from hospital care in a timely manner. Who Is Making the Change: Somerset Integrated Care Board (charged with commissioning services across Somerset healthcare) recruited 13 respiratory champions after a regional initiative with one clinician in each small group of around 5 practices. The champions supported provision of information and support to their own group of practices. A mix of nurses and pharmacists agreed by the local practice groups and supported with a small financial budget. A WhatsApp support group, some educational support and training days has been provided, and attendance at a national conference. Measurement and Evidence of Change Improvement: There are reports of improved quality of pulmonary rehabilitation referrals from the local provider. Attendance at learning events has been high – and significant numbers undertaking spirometry training. Somerset has the 12th highest asthma prevalence in the country (42 systems), however has the 6th lowest admission rate – the best regionally and a very low asthma mortality rate. Somerset has the lowest level of high dose inhaled corticosteroid prescribing nationally. Other data will be presented that is equally good on prescribing and reviewing of people with respiratory problems. Future Plans: Somerset ICB aims to support this programme for at least another year, will provide more training and support opportunities and will encourage integration with a recently commissioned Community Respiratory Team. The progress will be monitored and aim to continue to improve care, confidence and outcomes.