Spirometry is one of the most essential diagnostic tools used in primary care for identifying, monitoring, and managing lung conditions. As respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) continue to rise, the importance of spirometry in primary care settings has never been greater.

At Primary Care Supplies, we supply accurate and reliable spirometry equipment that supports GPs, practice nurses, and respiratory specialists in delivering high-quality care and early diagnosis.

What Is Spirometry?

Spirometry is a lung function test that measures the volume and speed of air a patient can inhale and exhale. It is non-invasive, quick to perform, and provides immediate insights into how well a patient’s lungs are working.

It is commonly used to diagnose and monitor:

• Asthma

• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)

• Pulmonary fibrosis

• Restrictive and obstructive airway disorders

The test helps identify airflow limitations and track changes over time, guiding treatment plans and medication reviews.

Why Spirometry in Primary Care Matters

Incorporating spirometry into routine primary care assessments has several benefits:

• Enables early detection of chronic respiratory diseases

• Reduces referrals to secondary care by supporting diagnosis at the first point of contact

• Improves treatment outcomes through regular monitoring

• Meets Quality and Outcomes Framework (QOF) indicators

• Supports data collection for NHS audits and clinical governance

With the rise in respiratory symptoms post-pandemic and due to smoking or air pollution exposure, GPs are seeing more patients presenting with breathlessness, persistent cough, or wheezing. Spirometry provides an objective measurement to support a diagnosis rather than relying solely on symptoms.

Key Spirometry Measurements Explained

A standard spirometry test records several critical values:

• FVC (Forced Vital Capacity) – the total amount of air the patient can forcibly exhale after a deep breath

• FEV1 (Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 Second) – the amount of air exhaled in the first second

• FEV1/FVC Ratio – helps to detect obstructive or restrictive lung patterns

An FEV1/FVC ratio below 0.7 typically indicates airway obstruction, while a reduced FVC with a preserved ratio suggests restriction.

Who Should Be Offered Spirometry?

According to NICE guidelines, spirometry should be considered for:

• Individuals over 35 who smoke or used to smoke and present with respiratory symptoms

• Patients with long-term cough, breathlessness, or frequent chest infections

• People with suspected asthma or COPD

• Those being monitored for lung disease progression or treatment effectiveness

Identifying symptoms early through spirometry can lead to quicker interventions and better patient outcomes.

Choosing the Right Spirometry Equipment

At Primary Care Supplies, we offer a range of spirometers suited to both NHS and private healthcare providers. Our devices are compliant with ATS/ERS 2019 standards, easy to clean, and simple to use in busy clinical environments.

Some of our most popular models include:

• MIR Spirobank Smart: app-connected with real-time results

• MIR Intermedical Spirolab: highly portable and compact solution for diagnostic spirometry

• Vitalograph Pnuemotrac: PC-spirometer with Spirotrac software

• Easy on-PC Spirometer: PC-based spirometer designed for precise, real-time lung function diagnostics

All devices are available with compatible filters and mouthpieces to support infection prevention and control.

Training and Quality Assurance

Accurate spirometry depends on both high-quality equipment and trained professionals. Spirometry should be performed by staff who have completed an ARTP-accredited training programme.

Best practice includes:

• Calibration/verifying calibration of devices before every clinic or every 10 patients

• Using single-use viral/bacterial filters

• Performing three good quality blows per patient

• Following ARTP guidelines for test acceptability and repeatability

We also provide access to spirometry consumables and accessories to maintain hygiene and compliance.

Combining Spirometry with FeNO Testing

While spirometry measures airflow limitation, FeNO testing provides insight into airway inflammation. Using both tools together allows a more complete respiratory assessment, especially for asthma diagnosis.

FeNO testing is now recommended as a first-line investigation by the NICE asthma guidelines. Discover our NObreath FeNO monitor, an ideal companion to spirometry for a full diagnostic pathway.

Supporting Practice Compliance and QOF Delivery

Spirometry supports multiple QOF indicators under asthma and COPD domains. Practices performing spirometry regularly can expect:

• Higher QOF scores

• More effective disease registers

• Enhanced patient recall systems

• Stronger evidence for Care Quality Commission (CQC) inspections

Using spirometry in primary care is not just best practice—it supports clinical performance and patient satisfaction.

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Improve Respiratory Care with Reliable Spirometry Equipment

From routine testing to annual reviews, spirometry in primary care is an essential tool for effective diagnosis and patient management. Equip your practice with accurate and user-friendly spirometers by visiting our spirometry and respiratory diagnostic section.

If you are unsure which device is right for your setting, our team is here to help. Get in touch today for expert support and pricing.