Primary healthcare professionals' perceptions, attitudes and ideas regarding asthma management in Greece: A mixed-method study

Background: Implementing asthma guideline recommendations is challenging and there is variation between countries, and different healthcare professionals (HCPs). The International Primary Care Respiratory Group (IPCRG) has introduced the Asthma Right Care (ARC) programme implemented in 24 low, middle, and high countries, including Greece. It offers a promising approach drawn from social movements for health to improve asthma care by engaging HCPs in implementing guideline-based asthma care.

Objectives: To explore HCPs' perspectives on current provision of asthma care and their willingness to improve implementation of recommended guidelines using ARC programme tools in Greece.

Methods: A mixed methods study conducted from September 2020 to April 2021. A convenience sample of 30 pharmacists, and 10 General Practitioners (GPs), responded to a questionnaire investigating perceptions, and attitudes, towards implementation of asthma guidelines. Then, a qualitative survey followed with semi-structured interviews to evaluate the feedback obtained from HCPs to assess the content, and applicability of the ARC tools. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results: A range of practical challenges in implementing guideline-recommended interventions, improving asthma control and management were described by all HCPs, including lack of time and education, high workload, patients' perceptions, and poor communication contributing to poor management and inadequate follow-up of people with asthma. However, most HCPs were willing to use ARC interventions to improve guideline implementation.

Conclusion: HCPs in Greece encounter challenges in implementing asthma guidelines; however, they can overcome these challenges by using ARC interventions and engagement tools to address barriers and implement efficient asthma management strategies.