Patterns of compliance to paediatric asthma plans in WWRRH and St. George Hospital

Phillipa Harrison, William Duggan

Aim

This study aimed to explore the relationship between indicators of socioeconomic status (SES) and prescription of a paediatric Individualised Asthma Action Plan (IAAP), as well as compliance with that plan.

Methods

Between May and September 2017, parents/carers of children aged 2-16yrs who presented to the emergency department (ED) at SGH or WWRRH, with acute respiratory symptoms and a prior diagnosis of asthma, were invited to participate in a questionnaire-based study.

Results

175 eligible participants were identified, of which 113 completed the questionnaire. Eighty-seven children had been prescribed an IAAP (77%). Forty-nine parents/carer reported non-compliance with that plan (56.3%). Children from low-middle income families were significantly less likely to have a plan (p=0.001). Being an only child was associated with greater IAAP compliance (p=0.007) and better asthma control (p=0.035). No significant relationship between other indicators of SES and rates of plan ownership or compliance was demonstrated.

Conclusion

IAAP ownership rates remain well below published guidelines. Given the income-based disparity in plan ownership, physicians must routinely prescribe plans to all asthmatics. Strategies to promote IAAP ownership and utilisation, especially in the public health sector, would be valuable.