Why getting the diagnosis right is the basis for optimal management

This document was originally published in Spring 2017.

Early and accurate respiratory diagnosis is the basic building block of good care. It requires a structured, systematic approach that combines objective evidence/tests and clinical judgement. Clearly, misdiagnosis is a safety issue that puts the patient at great risk.

The Respiratory Academy has published top tips for making a timely and accurate diagnosis.

Here, in his article entitled ‘Early and accurate respiratory diagnosis: a patient safety issue needing more serious attention’, Noel Baxter, PCRS-UK Executive Chair, makes the point that clinicians need to be explicit about what they need to achieve confidence in making an early and accurate diagnosis.