British Thoracic Society responds to the Major Conditions Strategy Interim report

BTS is heartened to see that the Major Conditions Strategy recognises respiratory as one of the six areas where changes to delivery and services can make a huge contribution to the long-term health of the nation. Sadly, we know that many more people are living with at least two long-term conditions, which can lead to debilitating poor health and earlier mortality. Disparities in service provision across the four nations and the negative effect of health inequalities present further challenges, with lung mortality seven times higher in the most deprived areas.

The Strategic Framework's focus on prevention to help combat poor respiratory health across the lifespan is particularly welcomed, and vaccination against respiratory diseases will help reduce the risk of infection. NHSE rightly recognises it has a key role to play in encouraging vaccine uptake.

It is also good to note that the strategic framework recommends a whole-person approach to respiratory care from the first point of contact with a GP, followed by access to fast and accurate diagnostics, through to the creation of an annual personalised action plan. As well as receiving treatment from a respiratory specialist, respiratory patients should be able to access a wide range of tools, including self-management, treating tobacco dependence, advice on inhaler technique, pulmonary rehabilitation, and social prescribing.

We believe that the Community Diagnostic Centres referenced in the interim strategy will play a key role in diagnostic testing in the Community, and the promised cohort of newly trained staff will be a vital addition to the respiratory workforce.

BTS will continue to support respiratory health care professionals and work with NHSE and others to ensure that people receive the best outcomes possible for their respiratory condition.

Read the Major Conditions Strategy Strategic Framework Report