Sub-optimal patient and physician communication in primary care consultations: its relation to severe and difficult asthma

Our data identifies that patients, particularly those with severe and/or difficult asthma and poor control, underplay symptoms and do not discuss non-medical factors which may impact on asthma control in primary care consultations. This poor communication is associated with patients underestimating disease severity and/or what could be achieved in terms of disease control. Training HCPs in the use of patient-centred communication skills may optimise asthma management in primary care.