Washington Pediatrics began an Asthma Clinic in September, 1999 to better serve our patients with asthma. We determined that many parents had insufficient knowledge and understanding of their children's asthma condition.

Referrals to the Asthma Clinic are usually made by the physician while the patient is in the office. Usually the parent has come in with a child who has suffered an asthma episode and is need of assistance to appropriately manage their child's asthma.

The purpose of the clinic is to give families the tools they need to manage their child's asthma effectively. Education is the key. We review triggers that may cause the asthma episode, as well as the steps to avoid or decrease exposure to them. Medications are discussed and demonstrations provide the proper techniques of administering them so that they are used correctly. Other equipment the patient may use such as peak flow meters, holding chambers, and/or nebulizers are also discussed, including the proper care of such equipment to make them more effective and reliable.
 

Our goal is to provide:

• Thorough assessment and diagnosis
• A logical approach to drug treatment
• Follow-up to monitor response and adjust drug treatments
• Effective patient education
• Asthma management plans for all patients with asthma
   

We know that improving asthma care takes time and that is why we have established our Asthma Clinic. Trained staff are available to provide one-on-one consultation on asthma care. Asthma can be very confusing and overwhelming. Given the right support, Washington Pediatrics can make your child's asthma manageable, and their lives more comfortable.

For more information about our Asthma Clinic, visit us at our main clinic.