Removing Barriers to Asthma Treatment

HEAL served 250 people across the U.S. and offered tools like:

• Access to asthma specialists
• Education about managing asthma
• Home checks for triggers like mold or pests

The results? When asthma is better controlled, Bosma says, people can sleep more soundly, are more active in their communities, and enjoy life more.

People in the program also reported: 

• More confidence about asthma control 
• Better understanding of asthma triggers
• Less reliance on rescue inhalers
• Fewer emergency room visits for asthma

 One woman shared how, after 60 years, she could finally go up and down her stairs without getting out of breath. “It wasn’t until she had access to a specialist and to appropriate asthma medication that she realized that her life could be so much better,” Bosma says.

Exploring New Treatments to Improve Asthma Control

If inhalers and other standard medications aren’t enough, newer treatments like biologics might make a big difference. These advanced therapies are highly effective for moderate to severe asthma, Bazan says, but often, they’re not used enough.

“The majority of people who come to my clinic for asthma don’t know that biologics exist,” she says. “Many think that inhalers are the end-all, be-all of asthma treatment, but that hasn’t been true for a long time.”

When Bazan starts someone on a biologic, the results can be dramatic. Many go from constant daily symptoms to nearly zero. Flare-ups that would have once required hospitalization happen much less often – if at all, she says.

Biologics target specific parts of the immune system to reduce inflammation and prevent asthma attacks. They’re given as a shot or IV infusion and are typically prescribed by asthma specialists, such as allergists, immunologists, or pulmonologists.

Here are some biologics approved for moderate to severe asthma:

• Benralizumab (Fasenra): For eosinophilic asthma 
• Dupilumab (Dupixent): For allergic and eosinophilic asthma
• Mepolizumab (Nucala): For eosinophilic asthma 
• Omalizumab (Xolair): For allergic asthma
• Reslizumab (Cinqair): For eosinophilic asthma
• Tezepelumab (Tezspire): For allergic and eosinophilic asthma 

These treatments can help prevent frequent flare-ups that can cause long-term damage to your lungs. Since they reduce the need for steroids like prednisone, Bazan says, they also lessen your chances of serious side effects, such as diabetes or bone loss.

Do You Need a Better Asthma Treatment Plan?

Not everyone knows what good asthma control looks like or what the latest treatment guidelines suggest. Here are some signs your current plan might need an update:

• You have asthma symptoms more than twice a week.
• You wake up at night due to breathing problems. 
• You use a rescue inhaler more than twice a week.
• You have serious flare-ups that send you to the hospital. 
• Asthma interferes with your daily life. 
• You need steroids like prednisone more than once a year. 

If any of those sound familiar, it’s time to talk to your doctor. If they’re unsure how to adjust your plan, Bazan suggests asking for a referral to a specialist.

“Advocate for yourself as best you can,” she says. “Know that even one or two courses of prednisone a year is too many.”

Making Asthma Treatment More Affordable

Medication costs can be a huge barrier to asthma care. Many people skip doses or avoid taking their meds altogether when treatment is too expensive.

In response to advocacy groups like AAFA, some drug companies now cap inhaler costs at $35 per month – a step in the right direction, Bosma says. “But it certainly doesn't fix all of the medication access barriers.” 

For those with insurance, asthma medications are often covered. But advanced treatments like biologics may require extra steps for approval. If cost is an issue, tell your doctor. They may be able to find something cheaper that works just as well.

Other ways to lower out-of-pocket costs:

• Check whether you qualify for Medicaid (insurance for low-income earners). 
• Look into nonprofit or state-run drug assistance programs.
• Explore patient assistance programs offered by drug companies.

You can also reach out to these organizations for additional help:

• Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America
• Allergy & Asthma Network 
• PAN Foundation FundFinder
• American Lung Association

Local nonprofits like United Way may also offer assistance. For personalized support, consider calling AAFA’s helpline at 800-727-8462. “We have a support center that’s staffed by a human being. They’ll help you troubleshoot the best options for your situation,” Bosma says. 

How to Take Charge of Your Asthma Care

Think of yourself as an equal partner in your care. “It’s OK to disagree with your physician,” Bosma says.

Here are some expert tips to help you break down barriers to asthma treatment: 

• Find your asthma community. Groups like AAFA offer online support communities where you can share experiences and learn about treatment options. 
• Do your research. Read up on all the available treatment options and write down questions for your doctor. What other medications are available? Are there medicines other than inhalers? How can you get access to specialized treatment?
• Keep a journal. Track your asthma symptoms and triggers. You can use an app or just jot down notes on your phone. This can help you spot patterns and see when it’s time to adjust your treatment plan. 
• Get a second opinion. You can see a different doctor for any reason. But if you’ve ever ended up in the emergency room or intensive care unit (ICU) for your asthma, it’s time to see someone who can do more for your asthma care.

Asthma can be challenging. But with the right treatment plan and support, you can manage your symptoms and maintain a good quality of life. Stay informed, advocate for yourself, and work with your health care team to find the approach that works best for you.