Doctors urge asthmatics to check inhalers ahead of Spring
Doctors are urging Australians with asthma to check their medication is up to date and speak with their GP, amid concerns cost-of-living pressures may be affecting access to essential medicines.
With research suggesting more than 50 per cent of Aussies have taken old medication, delayed or simply not filled a prescription due to cost-of-living pressures,[1] Doctors are urging Australian asthmatics to ensure their medication is up to date or visit their GP ahead of the Spring asthma season.
Despite changes to treatment advice[2] which recommends a move away from traditional ‘blue puffers’ to inhaled steroids, there are concerns many of the 2.8 million Aussies living with asthma,[3] may not have the right medication for spring when increased pollen levels and wind can increase the risk of attacks.
Dr Jonathan Brown, Medical Director of Bupa Medical said too many Australians don’t think about asthma until they need to reach for their inhalers.
“Asthma flare ups can happen quickly due to spikes in pollen during thunderstorms and high winds so being prepared is essential. If you are asthmatic and using your blue reliever inhaler more than twice a week, then your asthma isn’t well controlled.
Asthma flare ups can happen quickly due to spikes in pollen during thunderstorms and high winds so being prepared is essential. If you are asthmatic and using your blue reliever inhaler more than twice a week, then your asthma isn’t well controlled.
"We understand cost-of-living pressures are forcing many Australians to make difficult choices about their healthcare but delaying or skipping asthma medication can increase the risk of serious health consequences, particularly as we enter the spring asthma season. If you've been stretching out prescriptions, using expired medication or haven't reviewed your asthma management recently please book in to see your local GP who can get your asthma management back on track,” Dr Brown said.
Bupa research also revealed that cost was nominated as the number one barrier to maintaining health and wellbeing for Australians[4], ahead of time pressures and general complacency.
“Asthma flare-ups can be unpredictable, so it’s vital to be prepared, have an action plan and seek urgent medical attention where required. The right treatment and preparation can help prevent symptoms from escalating and reduce the likelihood of needing emergency care."
“Knowing what services are available, particularly after hours, such as Medicare Urgent Care Clinics or 24/7 online doctors can be great resources for when a non-urgent medical situation does not necessarily require a visit to your local Hospital Emergency department,” Dr Brown said.
Through Blua, eligible Bupa Health Insurance customers can arrange to speak to a doctor 24/7, with 100% of appointment fees covered for up to 3 or 6 appointments per person each year, depending on their level of cover[5].
To find a Bupa Medical Centre near you visit here.
[1] McKell-Stil-out-of-pocket-2026.pdf
[2] https://www.asthmahandbook.org.au/management/adults-and-adolescents/medication-management/initial-asthma-treatment-for-adults-and-adolescents-after-diagnosis
[3] Chronic respiratory conditions: Asthma - Australian Institute of Health and Welfare
[4] Bupa Pulse Check 2026.pdf
