Self-management plans: uses and limitations

Abstract

Giving patients control of their own condition enhances compliance and has been shown to be associated with reduced morbidity and reduced necessity for health care. Selection of appropriate patients should be done within the context of a partnership between patient and health professional and the advice given clearly needs to be individualized. Not all patients need detailed self-management plans but all patients need simple written advice about their drug regimen and about signs that suggest worsening asthma and what to do under those circumstances.