Implementation of the treatable traits approach in a regional clinic: Improving health outcomes in adults with bronchiectasis

Abstract

Objectives: Treatable traits are identifiable and treatable features of disease. The primary objective was to evaluate whether a bronchiectasis clinic in a regional setting, implementing a treatable traits approach, would lead to improvements in quality of life. Secondary objectives were to evaluate clinic implementation outcomes, annual exacerbations and hospitalisation. Methods: An implementation study. Adults with bronchiectasis attending an outpatient clinic in Rockhampton, Australia between 2021 and 2023 were recruited. Clinical care was implemented by a physiotherapist and nurses according to traits identified. Quality of life (QoL-Bronchiectasis respiratory symptom score (QoL-B rs), Leicester Cough Questionnaire (LCQ) total score) was evaluated at baseline, three and 12-months from first attendance. Implementation outcomes were determined by clinic appointment uptake and attendance and pulmonary rehabilitation uptake and completion at 12-months. Exacerbation frequency and hospitalisation for the 12-months before and after enrolment were compared. Results: 50 participants were recruited [mean (SD) age 71 (12) years; Bronchiectasis Severity Index (%) mild (22) moderate (44) severe (34)]. There was a significant improvement in QoL at three and 12-months from baseline (mean difference, 95% CI) [3 months: QoL-B rs 9.2 (3.2-15.2), LCQ 1.7 (0.6-2.8); 12-months: QoL-B rs 10.1 (3.9-16.3), LCQ 1.8 (0.8-2.8)]. Clinic uptake (91%), attendance (97%) and pulmonary rehabilitation uptake (74%) and completion (84%) were high. Exacerbation frequency [median (IQR) 1.0 (3.0) to 0.0 (1.0), p = 0.007], and hospitalisation decreased (18% vs 0%, p = 0.005). Discussion: A treatable traits approach improved quality of life, was feasible, including the achievement of high pulmonary rehabilitation uptake and completion, and reduced exacerbation frequency and hospitalisation.