Comparison of a network of primary care physicians and an open spirometry programme for COPD diagnosis.

Background: Early diagnosis of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) remains the cornerstone for effective management. In this study we compared an open spirometry programme and a case-finding programme providing spirometry to high-risk subjects selected by primary care physicians.

Methods: A network of primary care physicians was created after invitation and all participants received training on COPD and spirometry.