ECU Health’s Regional Pediatric Asthma Program is improving the lives of children with asthma across rural North Carolina. It’s not just about providing top-notch medical care and the latest research; it’s about building strong relationships with patients, families, and local healthcare providers.
The program, which started in 1995, now spans 29 counties and has helped nearly 10,000 children. They’ve seen a dramatic increase in referrals and case management, demonstrating the growing need for specialized asthma care in these underserved communities.
Personalized Care, Close to Home
The program offers a personalized approach to asthma care. This includes:
- Diagnosis and treatment planning: Working closely with families and primary care physicians to develop individualized plans.
- Advanced testing: Using tests like FeNO and spirometry to assess lung inflammation and function.
- Support beyond medicine: Providing asthma supplies and medications, often at no cost to families, thanks to Children’s Miracle Network funding.
- Addressing environmental triggers: Coordinating with local agencies to address issues like mold and pests in the home that can worsen asthma.
Expanding Reach and Changing Lives
The program team actively seeks out communities in need by analyzing hospital data and conducting outreach to schools and healthcare providers. This proactive approach ensures that children who might otherwise struggle with uncontrolled asthma get the care they need.
“We’re able to bring a different perspective to these rural areas with our knowledge and testing,” says Bailey Edwards, respiratory care manager for the program. “It’s life-changing for these families.” Parents often report significant improvements in their children’s health, such as reduced coughing and better sleep, thanks to the program’s interventions.
By combining medical expertise with a commitment to building trust and addressing the unique needs of rural communities, ECU Health’s Pediatric Asthma Program is making a lasting impact on the lives of children with asthma.
Source: Children’s Hospital Association, January 9, 2025