British Thoracic Society

British Thoracic Society (BTS) is a professional and educational organization for medical professionals in the United Kingdom who manage patients with respiratory and associated disorders. It is a registered charity and a company limited by guarantee.

History

The British Thoracic Society was established in 1982, following the merger of the British Thoracic Association and the Thoracic Society. The society's mission is to improve standards of care for people who have respiratory diseases and to support and develop those who provide the care.

Activities

The BTS conducts a wide range of activities, including the development of clinical guidelines, the organization of scientific and educational events, and the provision of resources for professionals and patients. It also conducts research and advocates for improvements in respiratory health.

Clinical Guidelines

The BTS is known for its clinical guidelines, which are developed by multidisciplinary teams of experts. These guidelines provide evidence-based recommendations for the diagnosis, treatment, and management of various respiratory conditions, including asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), and pneumonia.

Scientific and Educational Events

The society organizes a variety of scientific and educational events, including the annual BTS Winter Meeting, which attracts respiratory professionals from around the world. These events provide opportunities for networking, learning, and sharing of best practices.

Resources for Professionals and Patients

The BTS provides a range of resources for professionals and patients, including educational materials, patient information leaflets, and online learning modules. These resources aim to support the delivery of high-quality care and to empower patients to manage their conditions effectively.

Research and Advocacy

The BTS is actively involved in research and advocacy to improve respiratory health. It collaborates with other organizations, including the National Health Service (NHS), to conduct research and to advocate for policies that support respiratory health.

See Also

• Respiratory medicine
• National Health Service
• Clinical guidelines