Virtual Asthma Program Improves Control, Reduces Steroid Use
For adults struggling to manage asthma, a novel approach is showing promise: virtual self-management education. Data presented at the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma &. Immunology (AAAAI) Annual Meeting suggests that a program of one-on-one virtual sessions with a certified asthma educator can significantly improve asthma control for over 75% of participants. This is particularly encouraging as asthma remains a widespread condition, and effective management can be challenging, even with available treatments.
Bridging the Gap in Asthma Care
The study, led by Leandra Tonweber, PA-C, AE-C, from Allergy & Asthma Network (AAN), focused on 60 adults with poorly controlled asthma. Participants engaged in six individual sessions with a certified asthma educator, supplemented by a workbook and a mobile app. The program, known as the Virtual Asthma Self-Management Education Program (VASMEP), or “Trusted Messengers,” is designed to empower individuals, particularly those in under-resourced communities, to better understand and manage their condition. AAN developed this program to address the gap in asthma care, recognizing that many individuals struggle with consistent symptom management despite available therapies. Learn more about the program here.
Tonweber emphasized the importance of accessible education, stating, “I hope the findings will encourage clinicians who experience time constraints to provide asthma self-management education to patients with uncontrolled asthma as a collaborative bridge for asthma self-management education.” The program is offered free of charge to patients and demonstrates strong clinical benefits, making it a potentially valuable resource for healthcare providers and individuals alike.
Understanding Asthma Control and Systemic Steroid Use
Asthma control isn’t simply the absence of symptoms. It encompasses how well a person can manage their asthma on a daily basis, minimizing interference with activities and reducing the need for rescue medications. The VASMEP focuses on several key areas: understanding asthma as a disease, recognizing what asthma control looks like, proper use of medications (including inhalers), identifying and managing triggers, and advocating for oneself in healthcare settings. A crucial component of this education is understanding when and how to use quick-relief inhalers, and the importance of consistent controller medication use as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
The study also examined the impact of the program on systemic corticosteroid use. Systemic corticosteroids, while effective in managing asthma flare-ups, can have significant side effects with long-term use. Reducing reliance on these medications is a key goal of effective asthma management. Researchers found that 52% of participants reported reduced systemic corticosteroid use 12 weeks after completing the VASMEP (P < .05). This suggests the program not only improves symptom control but also contributes to a more sustainable and safer treatment approach.
Improvements in Asthma Control Test (ACT) Scores
To objectively measure asthma control, researchers utilized the Asthma Control Test (ACT). This standardized questionnaire assesses symptom frequency, nighttime awakenings, activity limitations, and rescue medication use. Participants completed the ACT at the beginning of the program and again 12 weeks after completion. The results were striking: 78% of adults demonstrated an improved ACT score (P < .001), with an average increase of 3.8 points. This indicates a substantial improvement in their perceived ability to manage their asthma. More information on asthma control assessment can be found here.
Addressing Misconceptions About Asthma Control
Tonweber highlighted a common misconception among participants: the normalization of daily asthma symptoms. Many individuals believed that experiencing symptoms daily was simply “normal” and delayed using their quick-relief inhaler until symptoms became severe. The VASMEP aims to address this by teaching participants to recognize early warning signs and proactively use their inhaler, preventing symptoms from escalating. This proactive approach, combined with consistent controller medication use, is central to achieving and maintaining asthma control.
The positive impact of the program extended beyond the 12-week assessment period. An exit survey conducted 13 months after program completion revealed that all 38 respondents agreed or strongly agreed that their asthma was better controlled.
Looking Ahead: Expanding Access and Research
The success of the VASMEP has spurred further research. BlueMarble Health, in collaboration with AAN, has received a National Institutes of Health (NIH) Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) grant to compare the current one-on-one model with a patient self-directed model. Recruitment for this new study will begin in April 2026. This research will help determine the most effective way to deliver asthma self-management education and maximize its impact.
For healthcare providers interested in referring patients to the free VASMEP, De De Gardner, DrPH, RRT, RRT-NPS, FCCP, can be contacted at [email protected]. The program is currently accepting rolling enrollment.
The findings from this study underscore the potential of virtual education programs to improve asthma management, particularly for those facing barriers to traditional care. By empowering individuals with knowledge and skills, the VASMEP offers a promising pathway towards better asthma control and improved quality of life. Further clinical case reviews are available from Healio.