Abstract
Purpose: The purpose of this quality improvement project was to implement a comprehensive screening tool in the management of COPD and to determine the utilization rate of spirometry testing in the diagnosis of COPD in primary care.|Background: The majority of patients with COPD are managed by their primary care provider (PCP). The most current GOLD consensus report recommends the use of a comprehensive screening tool to assist in guiding the treatment of COPD. The CAT™ screening tool is used to measure the level of symptom burden in patients with COPD. The use of spirometry testing is preferred method of diagnosis for COPD and other chronic lung disease.|Sample/Setting: Two PCPs participated in this quality improvement project along with a convenience sample of patients with a diagnosis of chronic obstructive lung disease in a southeast Minnesota primary care clinic.|Methods: PCPs were educated on administration and interpretation of the CAT™ screening tool. During the data collection period the screening tool was administered to patients meeting inclusion criteria. Retrospective chart review was performed to evaluate the use of spirometry testing for the purpose of diagnosing chronic obstructive lung disease. At conclusion a survey was sent to participating providers for feedback.|Results: 23 (N=23) patients meeting inclusion criteria completed the CAT™ screening tool. 13 (n=13) patients had documentation of spirometry testing confirming the diagnosis of chronic obstructive lung disease. One (n=1) patient was referred for spirometry testing within to screening period. Post project survey perception was varied.|Conclusion: Survey results were inconclusive regarding the CAT™ screening tool adding value to practice. Treatment plans were not influenced as a result of the utilization of this screening tool. While utilization rates of spirometry were found to be low, providers did report facilitation of discuss with patient regarding their diagnosis of COPD as a result of use of the screening tool. Further investigation is needed to determine overall spirometry utilization rates. Further education regarding current GOLD report recommendations is needed for PCPs.