A pilot scheme is bringing together hospital doctors and GPs to offer lung checks to Merton adults at risk from breathing problems – making sure they get the treatment they need before they become seriously ill.
People from Morden Hall, Cricket Green and Wide Way GP practices, who have had breathing problems over the past year, are now being invited for screening at diagnostic clinics in their surgeries, run in partnership with St George’s University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust.
Clinic specialist nurse Freb Gamier who carries out the lung checks said: “People who come to the clinics will be screened with two simple tests called spirometry and Feno to measure their breathing strength and condition of their lungs. We can then adjust any medication or recommend any treatment if needed. We are urging residents to speak to their GP if they have any respiratory concerns.”
We are launching this pilot to find people with undiagnosed respiratory disease who are living with symptoms that could be treated to improve their quality of life.”
Clinical lead Fiona White said: “Nationally it is estimated that over two million people are living with undiagnosed lung disease known as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Many do not find out they have the condition until they become seriously ill and need hospital care. If people remain undiagnosed until they are severely disabled by the condition, or are admitted to hospital as an emergency, the benefits of treatment are greatly reduced. We are launching this pilot to find people with undiagnosed respiratory disease who are living with symptoms that could be treated to improve their quality of life.”
People with asthma particularly benefit from regular reviews on using their inhaler. If they are not using it correctly it could be life-threatening.”
Operations manager Dawn Defontaine added: “Local residents are missing out on vital checks and vaccinations to protect their health when they are more vulnerable living with respiratory illnesses. Some could benefit from having a rescue pack at home with an accurate diagnosis and ongoing monitoring. People with asthma particularly benefit from regular reviews on using their inhaler. If they are not using it correctly it could be life-threatening.”
NHS South West London is funding the project through the innovation programme to deliver improvements in respiratory care with a focus on reducing local health inequalities and improving prevention.
Merton resident Barry Fisher (above) said: “I have found this useful, and it will help me manage my condition better with a change in medication. This new clinic is good for the community.”
For the future, the expert team is hoping to develop the diagnostic hub as a means to boost the welfare of people attending and to train and develop the staff in respiratory medicine.