CARE Program Helped Families with Asthma During 10-Year Run

Children and families with asthma in San Bernardino County were able to breathe easier with the help of CARE, a 10-year program funded by a grant to the Department of Public Health from South Coast Air Quality Management District. The Coordinated Asthma Referral and Education (CARE) program was established in 2006 to provide educational resources and referrals. In that decade, the CARE program helped more than 1,500 families and children with asthma management techniques, hypoallergenic cleaning supplies, mattresses and pillow covers. One-on-one prevention education about asthma and its triggers helped to reduce emergency room visits and missed school days for hundreds of school-aged children. Now that the CARE program is ending, the Department of Public Health is continuing its commitment to fighting asthma by providing referrals and information on local resources such as American Lung Association, Breathmobile, Inland Empire Health Plan (IEHP), Molina Healthcare, and Dignity Health. Staff will assist families find alternative, free asthma programs to improve their child’s health status and quality of life. “We have made a committed effort to continue our partnership with other asthma care providers.” said Dr. Maxwell Ohikhuare, Health Officer, “I encourage families to become knowledgeable about asthma and take advantage of all the health educational resources available in the community”. The Department of Public Health is committed to the Countywide Vision of improving community health by continuing its partnership and collaboration with community based asthma organizations.