The Respiratory Transformation Partnership (RTP) is a unique national initiative developed by the Health Innovation Network, NHS England and the Office for Life Sciences, with industry partners.
It is designed to drive whole pathway transformation in asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) care, creating a new model of joint transformation delivery. It will bring policy, commissioning, innovation and frontline adoption together under one programme.
Respiratory disease:
- is the third leading cause of death in the UK
- affects approximately one in six people during their lifetime, with asthma and COPD the most common long-term respiratory conditions
- accounts for around 20% of all deaths
- contributes to approximately 8% of hospital admissions and 10% of inpatient bed days
- costs the UK economy an estimated £188 billion annually
The economic burden is also significant, with respiratory conditions costing the UK economy an estimated £188 billion annually.
Health inequalities remain a defining feature of respiratory disease. People living in the most deprived areas face significantly higher rates of emergency admissions and premature mortality from respiratory disease.
With the right guidance, timely care and targeted support, asthma and COPD are treatable.
In this section
Meet our clinical leads Core workstreams Pathway Transformation Fund – winter 2025/26 Updates and events COPD resources
