Toward a new model of childhood asthma care: community needs assessment in an underserved urban population

Abstract

Objectives The objective of this study was to utilize a community-engaged research approach to better understand gaps and opportunities for improving asthma care from the perspectives of patients, caregivers, community organization representatives, and healthcare providers in a predominantly minority community. Methods Forty-one participants from four groups (patients, caregivers, community organization representatives, healthcare providers) participated in interviews or focus groups. A phenomenological approach to this qualitative research allowed the research team to better understand the lived experiences of families seeking asthma care in this community. Results Five gaps and five corresponding opportunities were identified. The gaps identified were unequal healthcare resource distribution; underrepresentation of health professionals from diverse backgrounds; experiences of environmental racism; mistrust, bias, and discrimination in healthcare encounters; and systemic marginalization of communities. The opportunities identified include increasing healthcare infrastructure and accessibility; increasing racially, culturally, and linguistically congruent healthcare; implementing equitable improvements to the built environment; building relationships with communities and individuals; and acknowledging communities’ strengths and resilience. Conclusion This study identified systemic gaps to asthma care that are of prominent concern to the community.