The need for implementing a standardized, evidence-based emergency department discharge plan for optimizing adult asthma patient outcomes in the UAE, expert meeting
report

The need for implementing a standardized, evidence-based emergency department discharge plan for optimizing adult asthma patient outcomes in the UAE, expert meeting
report

Asthma is a common chronic respiratory inflammatory disease

Abstract
Background Asthma is a common chronic respiratory inflammatory disease that adversely affects patients’ quality of
life (QoL) and overall well-being. When asthma is not adequately controlled, there is a higher risk of exacerbations and
hospitalizations, thereby increasing the direct and indirect costs associated with the treatment and productivity loss.
Overreliance on SABA and underutilization of ICS in the management of asthma can result in suboptimal treatment
and poor asthma control. Patients who visit the emergency department are more likely to have poorly controlled
asthma. Ensuring that these patients are provided with an evidence-based treatment plan during discharge can help
reduce the risk of future exacerbations and consequently reduce the burden on the UAE healthcare system.
Methods A joint task force comprising experts from the Emirates Society of Emergency Medicine (ESEM) and
Emirates Thoracic Society (ETS) reviewed published evidence and updated guidelines in asthma management to
optimize the post-discharge recommendations.
Results The ESEM-ETS experts’ joint task force has developed a step-by-step plan for emergency department/
hospital discharge, which is based on the GINA 2023 guideline recommendations and the medications available in
the UAE. By adhering to this structured plan, emergency department physicians can play a crucial role in improving
asthma care, long-term patient outcomes, and the utilization of healthcare resources.
Conclusions Prioritizing patient education and ensuring patients are equipped with the best-suited asthma
treatment plans prior to discharge can help ED physicians improve patient outcomes and reduce healthcare resource
utilization in UAE hospitals.

Rasha Buhumaid1*, Ashraf Alzaabi2

, Bassam Mahboub3

, Mohamed Nizam Iqbal3

, Hamad Alhay Alhameli4
,

Mohamed Ghazi Al-Mafrachi5

, Kenneth Charles Dittrich6

and Thiagarajan Jaiganesh7

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12245-024-00757-4

2024

Peri Irawan

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