Education of Patients with Asthma Leading to the Self-management of their Condition? The primary Health Care Providers' Approach

Asthma is a chronic non-communicable disease considered a serious health problem worldwide. The Chronic Care Model promotes the self-management of patients' chronic conditions. This process requires an active engagement of health professionals to provide education for patients to manage their disease better. Aim: this study sought to explore the education process carried out by primary health care providers for asthma patients in two regions of Chile. Methods: Nine group interviews with 35 health providers in nine primary health care centers were conducted in two of the country's major urban areas, the Valparaiso and Biobio Regions. Data were analyzed using an inductive approach, with coding followed by category construction and interpretation. Results: Based mainly on age and educational level, health professionals construct a patient profile to adjust the information provided and the strategies employed to educate patients. The education is focused on pharmacological treatment and inhalation techniques. Educational strategies are primarily direct instruction through individual one-on-one sessions. Fewer actions were described to help patients choose, control, and correct their daily routines and lifestyle and involve patients in self-awareness and self-regulating their behavior. Conclusions: The health care education process for asthma patients focuses on delivering information about the disease and medical treatment. Some issues of the Chronic Care Model, which promotes self-management, are still not addressed.