As we approach the 5th anniversary of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita, I want to take a step back to reflect on the impact this natural disaster had on a community – one rich in culture, diversity and spirit – and the role I played in assisting a team that supported children affected by asthma in that region.
Thus the journey began, and still continues, through the Head off Environmental Asthma in Louisiana (HEAL) initiative—an observational study utilizing evidence-based interventions adapted to address asthma morbidity risk factors associated with post- hurricane environments. We encountered unique challenges, including not only the obvious tremendous environmental devastation and limitations such as time constraints to mobilize, but literally communities that no longer existed or were redefined in unimaginable ways. As a member of the Investigator Team and a non-resident of New Orleans, it was imperative that I quickly grasp what “community” meant in both pre- and post- Katrina. The study intervention team of Asthma Counselors (ACs) and Community Health Workers (CHWs), all residents of New Orleans, provided valuable insights to guide me in ensuring the environmental trigger reduction intervention was both practical and sustainable for the families involved. Members of the team lived or had family members in areas that were devastated. Therefore, these individuals were keenly aware and sensitive to the staggering barriers, extremely limited resources and the overall mental anguish that our study participants were experiencing.
This is an important lesson to consider. When addressing any community in need, it is important to remember that effective program implementation should incorporate a collaborative approach by building partnerships with community leaders and organizations that are in touch with the people being served. It is also important to incorporate strategies that are flexible, realistic and tailored to the community’s unique needs. This is essential for long-term success.
The first phase of HEAL ended in August 2009. One important outcome is that the two ACs involved in the project became certified asthma educators. Prior to HEAL, they did not have asthma case management experience. Through rigorous training and mentorship they were able to take and pass the national asthma certification exam on their first attempt. Their success strengthened community capacity by increasing the number of nationally-certified asthma educators (AE-C) in New Orleans from one to three. Most importantly, preliminary analyses suggest the intervention had a strong effect on symptom reduction. Stay tuned.
Eleanor Thornton, MS, CHES, AE-C
President/CEO, Visionary Consulting Partners, LLC
