Improving care and quality of life for all asthma patients.

Asthma is an expensive chronic disease that today affects at least 5 percent of the American population. Oftentimes, many patients are failing to properly manage their conditions. It is no surprise, therefore, that many health care providers are looking for ways to help asthma patients better manage their care, use the most effective medications for their conditions, avoid costly emergency room or hospital visits, and improve their day-to-day quality of life. Sometimes, though, providers still face many challenges such as working with populations that experience poverty and poor social support, lack regular sources of health care, or face environmental situations that aggravate their conditions. However, many are finding out that innovative steps can be taken to help all asthma patients receive effective quality care.