Challenges and healthcare quality improvement strategies for asthma care for preschool children

Abstract

Asthma is the most common chronic illness in children. Preschool children (age 0 to 5) in particular experience a disproportionate disease burden compared to all other age groups. Part of the puzzle is the diagnostic challenge presented in this age group, and another is the difficulties in the care and management of asthma. Compounding the issue are the well-documented racial disparities experienced by minorities. This paper reviews the literature documenting the difficulties and disparities facing minority preschoolers with respect to providing and receiving care for asthma and qualitative improvement strategies targeting healthcare. Due to the complexity of the disease, more research on evidence based strategies targeting this age group is needed as well as better documentation of implementation processes.