Respiratory - information for GPs
From 30 June 2022, this website will not be updated
For the latest local health and care information, visit the new websites for Integrated Care Board hertsandwestessex.icb.nhs.uk or the Integrated Care System hertsandwestessexics.org.uk
From 1 July 2022, Clinical Commissioning Groups will be cease to exist. Commissioning functions and information that has been previously held by East and North Hertfordshire CCG is transferring to the new NHS Hertfordshire and West Essex Integrated Care Board (HWEICB) on 1 July 2022.
HWEICB will become the new data controller. Any questions about the use of data (including patient data) by the new ICB should be directed to hertsvalleysccg.hwecorporategovernance@nhs.net
There are no changes to how local residents access NHS frontline services in Hertfordshire and West Essex as part of these changes.
Respiratory - information for GPs
These pages are designed to aid GPs in your management of patients with chronic breathing conditions. Please use the menu links to your left to find the information you need. You can also click here for:
- Respiratory referral pathways
- CCG prescribing guidance for respiratory conditions
- Referral forms
- Locality information packs - published monthly and featuring COPD admissions by locality
Across the CCG area as a whole, emergency hospital admissions related to COPD and asthma are decreasing but there is still more work we can do to support patients in some localities to manage their condition better, and help reduce the number of unnecessary hospital visits still further.
Details of specific conditions
Below are links to websites containing information which your patients may find helpful.
COPD
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is the name for a collection of lung diseases including chronic bronchitis, emphysema and chronic obstructive airways disease. COPD information on NHS Choices
Bronchiectasis
Bronchiectasis is a long-term condition where the airways of the lungs become abnormally widened, leading to a build-up of excess mucus that can make the lungs more vulnerable to infection. Bronchiestasis advice on NHS Choices
Asthma
Asthma is a common long-term condition that can cause coughing, wheezing, chest tightness and breathlessness. The severity of these symptoms varies from person to person. Asthma can be controlled well in most people most of the time, although some people may have more persistent problems. Asthma advice on NHS Choices
Lung Disease
Lung disease affects more than 12 million people across the UK. The British Lung Foundation is leading the fight against lung disease to make sure no one has to face it alone The British Lung Foundation
- BLF Helpline: 03000 030 555
- Breathe Easy support group - Hertford
- BreatheEasy monthly newsletter: ‘Gasper’s Gazette’