Project Abstract Summary
The New Jersey Department of Health’s Childhood and Adult Asthma Program (CAAP) will seek
to advance health equity by reducing the undue burden of asthma prevalence in children in grades pre-k3rd residing in Trenton, New Jersey. This will be implemented through a comprehensive approach of
increasing access and coordination of care for medical management of asthma symptoms, asthma self-management education, and environmental health services to reduce asthma triggers in the home. T
The implementation of EXHALE strategies will be used to address environmental and social drivers that contribute to the high asthma burden.
Strategies include:
Targeted Identification: NJDOH, in collaboration with a community partner, will enhance the
linkage between the local Health Information Exchange (HIE) and school records by focusing on
schools in areas with higher poverty rates and greater demographic diversity. This targeted
approach will help identify children disproportionately affected by asthma, considering factors
such as socioeconomic status and environmental risks.
Culturally Competent Care Coordination: A culturally competent and trauma-informed care
model will be used once children with potential asthma are identified through their absenteeism
records. Community Health Workers (CHWs), who are culturally and linguistically reflective of
their communities, will be able to communicate effectively with families. They will provide
education, facilitate access to healthcare, and bridge any gaps in understanding or trust between
healthcare providers and the community.
Community Engagement and Empowerment: The goal is to engage community members in
designing and implementing health initiatives. This includes forming focus groups or community
advisory boards that include parents, teachers, and local healthcare providers to provide
feedback on the program's effectiveness and cultural appropriateness. Further, health education
materials will be developed in the most common languages prevalent within the Trenton
community. These materials will address common misconceptions about asthma and its
management and provide clear instructions on when and how to seek help. Workshops and
information sessions will be held in community centers, schools, and religious centers to reach a
wider audience.
Equitable Access to Care: Once the target population has been identified, their access to
necessary medications and treatments will be assessed. Partnerships with local health agencies
and community organizations will address any barriers to access, such as lack of insurance,
transportation issues, or insufficient understanding of how to navigate the healthcare system.
Data Monitoring and Continuous Improvement: Regular monitoring and evaluation of the data
collected through this integrated health information system will be essential. This will include
tracking outcomes based on demographic variables to ensure the interventions effectively
reduce asthma disparities. Feedback mechanisms will be established to continuously refine and
improve the program based on real-world performance and community input.
