New Study: The Virtual Model of Antenatal Asthma Care

The Virtual Model of Antenatal Asthma Care (VMAC) study evaluates the suitability of 2 types of asthma care in pregnancy.

1) virtual (tele/video conferencing) and

2) face-to-face (in person).

This study is being conducted by a team of researchers from the John Hunter Hospital, the Hunter Medical Research Institute and the University of Newcastle.

Uncontrolled asthma in pregnancy may harm the mother and the baby. Self-management education and clinical care may help to control asthma throughout pregnancy. Traditionally, it is provided as a face-to-face service which largely depends on the availability of both the mother and the healthcare team. To address this, we have developed a virtual model of care to provide the same service remotely (i.e., via tele or video conferencing). Women can access care at a convenient place and time. In this study, we are testing the suitability of this new approach.

We are looking for adult pregnant women with asthma who have access to a telephone. Participants will be randomised to one of the two study groups. Participants in group one will receive 2 virtual consultations on asthma management in pregnancy and participants in group two will receive 2 face-to-face consultations on asthma management in pregnancy.

The main highlights of the VMAC study include:

• A telehealth-based study: all assessments and follow-ups are completed over the phone. The intervention module will be delivered virtually OR face-to face (randomisation selected)
• Flexible interview schedule to suit the participants’ convenience

For a detailed description of the VMAC study including eligibility criteria, please read our participant information sheet.

Project status

Current