Pediatricians’ Attitudes and Behaviors toward Asthma Monitoring Devices in an Urban Setting

Abstract

Background: Asthma is the most common chronic pediatric illness in the United States, affecting approximately 25% of children in an urban population. Although current National Asthma Education and Prevention Program (NAEPP) guidelines clearly recommend the use of peak flow meters (PFMs), asthma action plans (AAPs), and spirometry in asthma management, poor adherence among physicians has been reported. Objective: In an area with one of the highest prevalence of asthma nationwide, we studied the adherence of pediatricians to NAEPP guidelines as well as their attitudes and behaviors regarding asthma monitoring devices. Design/Methods: A questionnaire was designed to collect information about pediatricians’ demographics, practice patterns, and use of asthma monitoring devices. General pediatricians, who were members of the Brooklyn Pediatric Society of New York, were asked to respond anonymously. The data were then analyzed. Results: The questionnaire was mailed to 106 pediatricians of whom 57 responded (54%)...