King County Asthma Program Miriam Philby, MA Program Manager

Today  You will learn: What is asthma Why is Asthma a problem What is asthma control and what are symptoms What is the HomeBASE Asthma Program How to refer to the program Asthma and the family, schools, and daycare Your role with families

The Problem 16 Million Adults 6 Million Children 22 MILLION AMERICANS

Asthma is... A chronic inflammatory disease Always present, though symptoms may not Cannot be cured, but can be controlled Disease that may cause permanent changes if not properly treated

Symptoms Intermittent cough Wheeze Shortness of breath Chest tightness Waking at night

HomeBASE Asthma Program For Adults Five year study to determine how to improve asthma control in adults Participants are followed for one year Each participant receives 3 in home education visits by a highly trained Community Health Worker An enrollment visit which includes extensive medical and behavior questionnaire, review of living environment for asthma triggers, and spirometry. Allergy test at the University of WA

Who IS Eligible for the Program Low income King County residents between English or Spanish Asthma Diagnosis * Hospitalization in last year No asthma education in last three years Not currently enrolled in other study Not planning on moving from KC within next year Asthma not well controlled

Who is NOT Eligible Lacks permanent housing Mental or physical disability making it impossible to participate in protocols; Household appears to be unsafe for visitation by the outreach workers Other serious chronic medical condition Greater than 15 pack years smoking FEV1 less than 40%

Services INTERVENTION GROUP 3 CHW educational visits and home environmental assessment in participant’s home. Phone survey at 6 and 12 months Gift cards for participating CONTROL GROUP Usual care, Phone survey at 6 and 12 months; may receive one home education visit and all supplies and resources at the conclusion of the study

Asthma Action Plan Examples

Supplies

Referral Process

MAKING A REFERRAL Complete the from and fax (You can also call and let us triage the family to the most appropriate program. Clients can also self-refer by calling number.) Post flyers & send brochures home with children for all family members

What caretakers need to know What caretakers need to tell schools and daycare center staff

Provide Schools and Daycare Centers A note from the physician and/or an Asthma Action A rescue inhaler & spacer to keep on site Benadryl and an epi pen if child has severe allergic reactions. Several contact phone numbers for parents/friends that can be used in case of emergency. For kids with severe nut allergies, create a nut-free table at school or day care lunch area.

Suggestions for School/Day Care Staff Create asthma kit Asthma Plan for each child Contact fire station Take asthma kits on field trips

King County Asthma Team KAREN SEAN MARIA MICHELLE MIRIAM MARGARITA BELLE