Investigating a structured diagnostic approach for chronic breathlessness in primary care: a mixed-methods feasibility cluster randomised controlled trial.

ABSTRACT:

Background

There is a need to reduce delays to diagnosis for chronic breathlessness to improve patient outcomes.

Objective

To conduct a mixed-methods feasibility study of a larger cluster randomised controlled trial (cRCT) investigating a structured symptom-based diagnostic approach versus usual care for chronic breathlessness in primary care.

Methods

10 general practitioner practices were cluster randomised to a structured diagnostic approach for chronic breathlessness including early parallel investigations (intervention) or usual care. Adults over 40 years old at participating practices were eligible if presenting with chronic breathlessness without an existing explanatory diagnosis. The primary feasibility outcomes were participant recruitment and retention rate a

SUBMITTER: Doe G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11831280 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature