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. 2017 Dec;94(6):824-834.
doi: 10.1007/s11524-017-0186-6.

Caring for Young Children with Asthma: Perspectives from Urban Community Health Centers

Ellen Childs  1 , Margaret A Laws  2 , Mari-Lynn Drainoni  3   4   5 , Anjali Nath  6 , Margaret J Reid  7 , Megan Sandel  2 , Robyn T Cohen  2
Affiliations

Caring for Young Children with Asthma: Perspectives from Urban Community Health Centers

Ellen Childs et al. J Urban Health. 2017 Dec.

Abstract

Asthma disproportionately affects low-income, minority youth, with notable disparities among children <5 years of age. Understanding the perceptions of urban community health centers (CHCs) regarding treating young children with asthma could improve care for these patients. This study uses data from semi-structured focus groups with staff from eight urban CHCs. Themes emerged in three domains. Within the parent/family domain, providers noted low rates of follow-up visits, low health literacy, and-for young children specifically-misunderstanding about the diagnosis. At the CHC level, providers needed more staff, space, and comfort with applying the guidelines to infants and young children. CHCs reported asthma registries, population health oversight, and an asthma champion improved care. At the system level, providers wanted improved communication with emergency departments and community outreach programs. Reducing these multi-level barriers may improve care.

Keywords: Asthma; Barriers; Children; Focus groups; Underserved populations.

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