Point-of-care Spirometry in Routine Practice: Clinicians Perceptions of its Impact on Diagnosis and Management of Obstructive Airway Diseases in India

Presenter: Madhuragauri Shevade

Asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) continue to be underdiagnosed in India, especially in primary and community healthcare settings where access to standard spirometry is limited. In the context of underdiagnosis and limited access to conventional spirometry in India, a nationwide cross-sectional survey of 98 Indian clinicians who had used handheld point‑of‑care (POC) spirometry for at least one month evaluated perceptions of its clinical utility, patient benefits, feasibility, and advocacy in obstructive airway diseases (asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease [COPD]).

Most clinicians reported improved patient care (95%), supported treatment decision-making (94%), and better outcomes (92%), with 81% considering results comparable to standard spirometry. Patient-centered benefits included reduced time and costs (93%), improved inhaler acceptance and adherence (92%), and high satisfaction (90%). Diagnostic confidence (93%) and patient acceptance (92%) were also strengthened. Despite challenges such as increased consultation time (78%) and logistical issues, the majority (87%) felt benefits outweighed barriers. Ease of use (95%) and seamless integration into routine practice (92%) were widely reported.

Overall, POC spirometry was perceived to enhance evidence-based care, though further patient-level outcome studies are needed.

13^th International Primary Care Respiratory Group (IPCRG) World Conference, 11^th to 14^th June 2026, Tunis, Tunisia.