Table 2: Overview of studies

Study / Sample / Type of Study and Data / Recommendations
Belletti et al (2013) / 1,517 COPD patients / Quantitative: retrospective review of clinical records in clinical practice / Educational initiatives to overcome inconsistent adherence to guidelines.
Kaufmann et al (2015) / 115 COPD patients / Quantitative: retrospective study of clinical records in general practice / Identifying and addressing gaps in documentation is a key health priority
Davis et al (2014) / 1307 GPs / Quantitative:
International survey of physicians / Further evaluation to identify barriers to adhering to guidelines
Perez et al (2012) / 154 GPs / Quantitative: Survey of GPs / Guidelines tailored to GPs are needed to overcome the barriers identified
Brusselle et al (2015) / 3 million COPD patients of which data from 387 primary-care practices / Quantitative: Historical Analysis / There is a need for dissemination and implementation of COPD guidelines
Bertella et al (2013) / 437 COPD patients / Quantitative: 4 years review of COPD patients medical background / Appropriate structured and ongoing training is necessary as well as adequate resourcing to improve outcomes
Bereznicki et al (2016) / 233 GPs / Quantitative: Postal Survey / Poor guideline adherence revealed and focused education and guideline dissemination needed
Maoi et al (2014) / 526 COPD patients / Quantitative: survey / More user-friendly guidelines can help physicians prescribe appropriately
Sandelowsky et al (2016) / 59 GPs / Qualitative: Semi-structured interviews and focus-group interviews / Greater consultation time is needed
Cabrera et al (2016) / 100 COPD patients in primary care and 150 COPD patients attending specialized care in a respiratory clinic / Quantitative: Spirometry Testing / A modified version of the GOLD guidelines can have success in GP management of COPD
Ulrik et al (2013) / 174,290 COPD patients / Quantitative: Observational Study / Focused education for GPs and also staff is necessary