Study Title: Trends in Respiratory Medication Prescriptions in Ireland Before and After the Introduction of a Chronic Disease Management Programme in General Practice

About the Study

Chronic or long-term respiratory conditions like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) are common worldwide and can make everyday life more difficult. These illnesses often lead to hospital admissions, but with the right care and regular check-ups, people can manage their symptoms and stay well. In 2020, the Health Service Executive (HSE) launched the Chronic Disease Management (CDM) Programme (Commonly referred to as 6-Monthly Check-ups/ Reviews/ NCTs for the body) in GP practices across Ireland. This programme helps people with long-term conditions, including asthma and COPD, by offering free 6-monthly reviews, personalised care plans, and ongoing support from their GP team. The aim is to keep people healthier for longer, reduce flare-ups, and make sure medications are being used safely and effectively.

This study, led by Professor Emma Wallace and Dr. Lydia Iladiva, and a team from UCC and the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, looks at how the CDM Programme has affected the way respiratory medicines are prescribed. The team is analysing anonymised information from the HSE Primary Care Reimbursement Service (PCRS) to see how prescribing patterns have changed between 2016 and 2024—before and after the programme was introduced.

Why It Matters

The research will look at which types of inhalers and other related medications are being prescribed and how often they are used.

By understanding these patterns, the study will help identify what’s working well and where improvements could be made. The findings will support better and safer prescribing for people with asthma and COPD in Ireland.

All the information used in this research is completely anonymised; no individual can be identified and is securely accessed through the Central Statistics Office (CSO). Ethics approval for the study has been granted by UCC. (CREC Review Reference Number: ECM 4 (r) 28/10/2025)

For more information or any questions, please contact: gp@ucc.ie