Pilot Evaluation of a Management Toolkit for Airway Clearance Therapy in Bronchiectasis (IMPACT BE)

Background: Airway clearance therapies (ACTs) are recommended as an integral part of the management of non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis (BE) to prevent inflammation, mucus accumulation, and infection that occur because of ineffective secretion clearance. Adherence to ACTs is low, in part because of perceived burden and a lack of standardization of education and training programs for patients. Poor adherence is associated with more frequent exacerbations, worse health outcomes, and worse quality of life. Structured educational programs increase adherence to ACT among people with cystic fibrosis and may show similar results for people with BE. Objective: This pilot study evaluated the feasibility, clinical utility, sustainability, and expert opinions of this educational program addressing gaps in ACT knowledge and skills in people with BE. Methods: The Individual Management of Patient Airway Clearance Therapy-Bronchiectasis (IMPACT BE) was implemented in nine BE centers with 100 patients. Qualitative and quantitative data were collected from patients and providers. Results: The IMPACT BE program demonstrated good uptake in a clinic setting by multidisciplinary team members, with improvements in medical teams' evaluation of their ability to provide education to patients. All healthcare teams indicated that this program could become a sustainable part of their clinic. Qualitative responses from patients indicated the program was comprehensive and easy to use. Conclusion: In this pilot study, IMPACT BE was found to be useful in teaching airway clearance to people with BE. The open-access toolkit was well received by both patients and a diverse array of providers in a clinic setting.