It’s working.
Children with asthma often face challenges managing their condition at school, where access to medication can be limited. However, new research highlights that school-based asthma therapy programs can make a significant difference in improving students’ health and reducing healthcare costs. According to findings published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Global, these programs not only improve asthma control but also reduce the number of emergency visits and hospitalizations.
The study, led by Kimberly Arcoleo of Michigan State University’s College of Nursing, analyzed the impact of a school-based asthma program in two school districts in Columbus, Ohio, between 2013 and 2019. The program provided each participating student with two inhalers—one for home and one for school—and trained school nurses to administer the medication according to doctor instructions. A total of 633 children between the ages of 5 and 19 participated in the initiative.
Results showed significant health improvements after just one year in the program. Children had better control over their asthma, with reductions of up to 56% in symptoms. Hospitalizations and ER visits dropped by about half, urgent care visits declined by 40%, and stays in pediatric intensive care units were reduced by more than 70%. The benefits were especially pronounced among Black students, who experienced even greater improvements in symptom management.
In addition to better health outcomes, the program proved to be financially effective. Although the initial cost per student was around $3,000, ongoing program costs dropped to roughly $500 annually once established. These costs were offset by major savings—nearly $3.4 million a year—due to fewer emergency room visits, hospital stays, and ICU admissions. The program also led to better school attendance and fewer behavioral issues, which benefited both students and schools financially, since school funding often depends on attendance rates.
Researchers are continuing to evaluate the full economic impact of the program, including the effects on caregiver productivity and school staffing. The study suggests that integrating asthma care into the school setting is a practical and impactful way to support children’s health and learning, while also reducing long-term healthcare spending.
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