The Pediatric Asthma "Coach" Model in Primary Care: A Narrative Review of Interdisciplinary Clinical, Educational, and Environmental Support
Abstract
Background: Pediatric asthma remains a leading cause of emergency department visits, hospitalizations, and missed school days, often due to suboptimal management rooted in poor inhaler technique, inadequate education, and uncontrolled environmental triggers. Traditional, physician-centric primary care models may lack the time and specialized expertise to address these multifactorial challenges comprehensively. Aim: This narrative review examines the evidence for interdisciplinary "coach" models within Family Medicine that integrate nursing, respiratory therapy, and physician expertise to improve pediatric asthma outcomes. Methods: A comprehensive search of PubMed, CINAHL, Scopus, and ERIC (2010-2024) was conducted, synthesizing literature on asthma education, interdisciplinary care, and environmental interventions in primary care. Results: Evidence indicates that structured models where nurses provide core education and action plan management, respiratory therapists deliver advanced technique training and environmental assessments, and family physicians focus on medication prescription guided by team feedback, significantly improve clinical outcomes. These models enhance inhaler technique, asthma control, and quality of life while reducing acute healthcare utilization and school absenteeism. Conclusion: The pediatric asthma coach model represents an effective, patient-centered paradigm for primary care. Successful implementation requires redefining professional roles, securing sustainable funding, and fostering a culture of team-based chronic disease management.
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Authors
Copyright (c) 2024 Shwroq Hamaad Saad Al-Marri, Seham Ibrahem Ali, Mohammed Ibrahim ALQasem, Sahar Ahmad Ali Aydhe, Wejdan Hussein Aldossari, Mona Ali Alghamdi, Ahad Rayhan Alquayqie, Mazen Ayidh Mohammed Alotaibi, Asma Mohammed Ishaq, Waad Rayhan Alquayqie, Mana Salem Ghazi Alotaibi, Mansour Alkhalaf
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