Algorithmic Primary Care Approach to Assessing Adults with Chronic Dyspnea

Clinical Research Results Abstract Research Idea Abstract Service Development & Evaluation Abstract Aim: To improve the primary care assessment and management of chronic dyspneaContext: Chronic dyspnea has multiple and often co-existing causes. The first step in optimizing care and outcomes is to make the correct diagnosis. This algorithm will help remind primary care clinicians of some less common causes and diagnostic options. Recurrent requests for CME (continuing medical education) on this topic has led to a literature search to provide this education and as such this algorithm was created.Description of intervention: An algorithm summarizing the diagnostic approach to both common and less common conditions, including which testing can be done in primary care.Lessons learned: Clinicians may not consider uncommon causes without reminders, and the diagnostic tests for such may not be in their current armamentarium, but can be once they are aware of suchMessage for others: Primary Care is the backbone of most health care systems and can come up with either the correct diagnosis and subsequent treatment or lead to an appropriate referral to the correct consultant, all with the goal to improve patient outcomes and care. Declaration of Interest There was no funding provided to create this algorithm. References and Clinical Trial Registry Information