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Comprehensive quality improvement program for asthma essential for better health outcomes
Woods ER. Pediatrics. 2012; doi:10.1542/peds.2010-3472.
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A comprehensive quality improvement program is a cost-effective measure for better health outcomes and care parity in pediatric asthma patients, according to recent study findings from Children’s Hospital Boston.
Elizabeth R. Woods, MD, MPH, and colleagues from the division of adolescent/young adult medicine evaluated the effectiveness of a quality improvement program in reducing ED visits, hospitalizations, physical activity restrictions and school absences due to asthma.
The researchers evaluated a community action initiative that was created to address health disparities in four Boston neighborhoods where children were most affected by asthma. The costs of the program were compared with costs from a similar community of patients. Researchers selected patients through ED and hospitalization logs and offered them enhanced care.
Using parent-completed interviews and hospital administration data, researchers examined services given to 283 mostly minority and poor children. According to the study, the quality improvement model included nurse case management and primary care coordination with referral services; bilingual nurse or nurse-supervised bilingual/bicultural Spanish community health worker home visits for asthma education, environmental assessment and remediation materials, and connection to community resources; and referral to an integrated pest management exterminator or inspectional services.
Woods and colleagues concluded that 12-month data showed a significant decrease in any asthma ED visits (68%) and hospitalizations (84.8%), and any days of limitation of physical activity (42.6%), patient missed school (41%), and parent missed work (49.7%).
The researchers said these results should be used to advocate the health and cost benefits of comprehensive quality improvement programs that enhance care for pediatric asthma patients and assist their families.
Disclosure: The researchers report no relevant financial disclosures.
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