A unified framework of education program for patient with bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease: standardization of the content and delivery methods

Active patient participation is essential in self-control of chronic respiratory diseases including bronchial asthma (BA) and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Existing educational programs (EPs) for patients are effective, but the lack of integrated approaches to their content and implementation methods limits the opportunities for their comparison and evaluation of effectiveness. Objective. To justify the necessity for standardization of content and methodology of performing educational programs for patients with bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, to present possible unified models of such programs. Materials and methods. A review of domestic and foreign publications on EPs for patients with BA and COPD presented in scientific citation databases between 1999 and 2026 was done. Results. The analysis showed a significant variability of EPs (schools) for patients with BA and COPD in terms of content, duration of one educational session and their number, optimal patient number in the group, teaching staff and methods of evaluating effectiveness. A unified structured EP model, including 4—6 sessions in groups of up to 10 people, lasting 45—90 minutes, on a weekly basis, is proposed. The content of EP should reflect data on risk factors and pathogenesis of the disease, its symptoms including periods of exacerbation, present a plan and possible self-control methods concerning appropriate lifestyle, treatment of the disease and understanding of symptoms of its aggravation. Criteria for evaluating the effectiveness of EP, which include knowledge of self-control methods and practical skills for their use, results of clinical, laboratory and instrumental examination methods, patient satisfaction, are proposed. Conclusion. Integrated approach to the content and methods of performing educational programs for patients with bronchial asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease will allow to improve their effectiveness and reproducibility, ensure equal access of patients to evidence-based information and practical skills of disease self-control, wide integration into the primary health care system.