Homecare Update

(From the June 2025 Issue of MedStat)

Providing Asthma Management and Reducing ED Visits

Homecare’s Asthma Express program continues to expand to meet the needs of children diagnosed with asthma throughout central Ohio and beyond. Intermittent Skilled Nurses are trained in evaluating the needs of asthma patients and their families. Based on the severity level of a child’s asthma diagnosis (intermittent, mild-moderate or severe), providers may refer the patient for one, two or three home visits.

During an Asthma Express home visit, the nurse evaluates the child and reviews the Asthma Action Plan. Following the provider’s referral, the nurse ensures that the patient and family understand when and how to take prescribed medications and that medications are stored safely and accessibly. The nurse also offers guidance on minimizing environmental triggers such as cigarette smoke, dust mites and animal dander. The child’s family receive a pillow cover and, if needed, a bed or mattress cover to create an allergy-free barrier, helping the child rest more comfortably.

Patients referred to the Asthma Express program are tracked based on whether they accept or decline the referral. This information is used to evaluate the program’s impact by comparing Emergency Department (ED) visit rates within 90 days of referral. Quality Improvement (QI) data consistently show that patients who accept and receive Asthma Express care experience significantly lower ED return rates compared to those who decline participation, demonstrating the program’s effectiveness in supporting asthma management at home.

In 2024, Asthma Express patients diagnosed with severe asthma had a 0.0% return rate to the ED within 90 days of their diagnosis. Overall, Asthma Express provides best outcomes for children diagnosed with asthma - keeping them in school, at home and out of the hospital.

Visit NationwideChildrens.org/Homecare for more information.