Spirometry Training

Pan African Thoracic Society Spirometry Training

One of the specific aims of the Pan African Thoracic Society (PATS) is the promotion of education and training initiatives to strengthen respiratory health across Africa. In line with this, PATS is delighted to announce the launch of a PATS-accredited certificate of competence in foundational spirometry training course. This 3 day course is aimed at all medical personnel working in, or wanting to work with spirometry. The course has been developed for Africans with a particular focus on our unique African settings and challenges.

The primary purpose of the spirometry training is to increase knowledge and awareness of spirometry on the continent. We hope to achieve this by teaching strategies not only in the theoretical and practical application, measurement and interpretation of spirometry but also on how to incorporate spirometry testing systematically into routine clinical practice in primary health care through to tertiary institutions.  

Teaching methods are blended to include theoretical concepts via eLearning followed by face-to-face on-site learning through power point presentations, group work, case studies and practical mentored exercises. Following formal training attendees will have the opportunity to have portfolios of their work evaluated by the training team, offering ongoing initial support and certification of skills acquired.  The course is CPD accredited.

Courses are arranged in host-countries for groups. Training opportunities are offered for individuals who would like access to further training to become future spirometry trainers and spirometry champions in host countries.  

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the European Respiratory Society for the generous donation of equipment and funding for this project from the European Lung Foundation. For those interested there is a limited amount of course facilitation grants available. For more information with regard to spirometry courses please email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..