Outcomes analysis of a summer asthma camp.

Forty children with moderate to severe asthma were enrolled in an asthma camp. Changes in peak flow meter (PFM) and metered-dose inhaler (MDI) technique, health care utilization, and school absenteeism were evaluated. The mean post-PFM score at the end of camp (8.9 +/- 0.3) was significantly higher (p < .0001) than the pre PFM score (6.0 +/- 3.4). The mean post-MDI score (6.5 +/- 1.5) was significantly higher (p < 0.0001) than the pre-MDI score (4.1 +/- 1.8). Emergency room visits decreased by 59%, hospitalizations decreased by 83%, and school absenteeism decreased from 266 to 188 days. Health care savings totaled $2014 per child enrolled.