Development of accessible digital resources to enhance upper airway control therapy
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Authors
Butler, J
Hunter, C
O'Connell, B
Parker, S
Issue Date
2025
Type
Article
Language
en
Keywords
Alternative Title
Abstract
Background
Speech and Language Therapists (SLTs) support management of upper airway disorders including chronic cough and inducible laryngeal obstruction (ILO). Interventions are complex, often including psychoeducation, breath/cough control exercises, and lifestyle changes. In a specialist UK upper airways service, patient and staff engagement identified demand for digital resources to promote self-management.
Methods
A website was developed in collaboration with patients, the wider multidisciplinary team and the Communications Team. Video content included a patient story, and breathing exercises. Written and pictorial information was presented on differential diagnoses and management. Accessibility tools enabled information to be accessed audibly, and via different languages, font sizes and colour contrasts. Paper versions of leaflets remained in use to minimise digital exclusion.
Relevant links were shared directly with patients via SMS upon receipt of referral, shared during clinics, and added to emails, appointment letters, reports, and leaflets in both text and QR code form. The website was also shared via social media and clinical networks. The communications team collected activity and satisfaction data.
Results
Over two years, the webpages have been accessed a total of 94,426 times, from across the UK. The most frequently viewed pages were ILO (38,748 views), laryngeal hypersensitivity (16,810 views), breathing exercises (16,728 views) and chronic cough (11,144 views). The least viewed page was throat care (2,709 views). The most frequently watched videos related to breathing exercises (11,857 views).
In addition to direct links, webpages were accessed via search engines, notably google (n= 49,086). Mobile devices (57%) were used more than desktop devices.
The average satisfaction rating was 9.5/10 (Range 9.3–9.8). The ILO, chronic cough and breathing exercise pages were ranked in the top 3 spots for highest satisfaction across 2024 for the host NHS Trust.
Conclusion
There is demand for digital information on upper airway disorders, notably ILO and breathing exercises. Websites enable people to access information regardless of local service provision, promoting more equitable and consistent access to healthcare resources. There is a need for more formal intervention development, and evaluation of impact, including cost effectiveness.
Description
Citation
Butler, J,, Hunter, C., O’Connell B. and Parker, S. (2025) Development of accessible digital resources to enhance upper airway control therapy. Thorax; 80 : 114.
Publisher
License
Journal
Thorax.