Asthma action plans
The personalised asthma action plan (PAAP) is a document that is part of supported self-management. It advises patients what to do if their asthma worsens, typically including their usual asthma medications, and guidance on how to recognize when their asthma is getting worse; when/how to increase reliever and controller puffs or start oral corticosteroids (e.g. prednisone) and when to access medical care if symptoms fail to respond. It is recommended by GINA and guideline organisations such as these from Germany and the USA as an important element of good asthma care which every person with asthma should receive and know how to use. However, studies repeatedly show that clinicians do not prioritise them and only a proportion of people with asthma have them and use them.
We have collated templates from members. Please note that a generic plan is low value. It must be tailored to the literacy and knowledge of the individual, including the use of pictures where helpful. In addition, it should be seen as part of a broader self-management plan that addresses both motivational factors and clinician and patient capability to manage asthma, including inhaler prescription and use.