Bronchiectasis is a major cause of chronic lung disease and its prevalence among Northern territory First Nations children is very high (one in every 63-68 children). Current therapies include regular physiotherapy and airway clearance manoeuvres, regular exercise, optimal nutrition, reducing environmental exposures (such as tobacco smoke) and ensuring recommended vaccines are up to date. In children with asthma, personalised asthma action plans are recommended and have been shown to improve outcomes. It is therefore likely that a personalised bronchiectasis action management plan (BAMP) would also benefit people with bronchiectasis. The BAMP specifically outlined details of their bronchiectasis, a list of what should be done on a daily basis, what to do if there is a flare up, indications when to see a doctor and when to obtain their influenza vaccine.

Aim

The aim of the study is to determine if the routine use of a personalised written bronchiectasis action management plan, compared to standard care, reduces non-scheduled doctor visits.

Secondary aims are to determine if a bronchiectasis action management plan:

• Reduces the rate of exacerbations
• Improves cough-specific quality of life
• Improves early uptake of the yearly influenza vaccine

This study is funded by the Children’s Hospital Foundation and being conducted in Darwin and Brisbane.