A new report summarizes the AHIP National Asthma Leadership Roundtable, convened in collaboration with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The report outlines the findings of a national assessment of health plan asthma care activities and describes health plan models that are pioneering the next generation of comprehensive asthma care.
The report emphasizes that, through these programs and partnerships, health plans enhance access to culturally competent, linguistically appropriate asthma care services for their enrollees and help reduce disparities in asthma care and outcomes.
The following are key takeaway points from the report: (1) effective asthma care includes both clinical treatment and environmental management; (2) home visits may help health plans improve quality of life for those with asthma and reduce asthma disparities; and (3) home-based assessments that reduce exposure to triggers are important elements of quality care.
Leaders from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) participated in the Roundtable. The Roundtable also featured discussions with health plan representatives on developing sustainable environmental asthma management programs for culturally diverse populations.