School-Based Telemedicine Interventions for Asthma: A Systematic Review

Abstract

BACKGROUND: School health systems are increasingly investing in telemedicine platforms to address acute and chronic illnesses. Asthma, the most common chronic illness in childhood, is of particular interest given its high burden on school absenteeism. OBJECTIVE: Conduct a systematic review evaluating impact of school-based telemedicine programs on improving asthmarelated outcomes.

Digital health interventions in children with asthma

“…The impact of telemedicine on asthma‐related clinical outcomes, such as symptoms, pulmonary function, healthcare utilization and medication use, was also investigated, as well as patient/parent satisfaction and QoL (Figure 1). 64,65 As reported by recent systematic reviews, the available evidence supporting the introduction of telemedicine for asthma management showed conflicting data, but none of the included studies indicated adverse effects 64,65 …”

“…Telemedicine QoL (Figure 1). 64,65 As reported by recent systematic reviews, the available evidence supporting the introduction of telemedicine for asthma management showed conflicting data, but none of the included studies indicated adverse effects. 64,65 In the context of the rapid worldwide spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), telemedicine might provide an additional and essential resource for managing children with asthma, replacing in-person visits.…”

“…64,65 As reported by recent systematic reviews, the available evidence supporting the introduction of telemedicine for asthma management showed conflicting data, but none of the included studies indicated adverse effects. 64,65 In the context of the rapid worldwide spread of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), telemedicine might provide an additional and essential resource for managing children with asthma, replacing in-person visits. [66][67][68][69] Telemedicine may also be helpful to patients with severe or uncontrolled asthma who might be at increased risk per se, due to lack of monitoring caused by social distancing and lockdowns.…”

Health disparities in allergic and immunologic conditions in racial and ethnic underserved populations: A Work Group Report of the AAAAI Committee on the Underserved

“…Maximizing the use of available asthma medications before considering the moreexpensive alternatives (including improved methods to enhance adherence to conventional therapy) [67][68][69] and ensuring access to mobile technology for the implementation of telemedicine in homes, clinics, and schools would help. 68,[70][71][72] Telemedicine will be particularly beneficial in rural, underserved communities because 94% of the population has broadband access, but ensuring reliable access to racial and ethnic minority groups in rural areas will be necessary. In urban settings, because indoor allergen and pollutant triggers in the built environment can exacerbate asthma, home visits can be an important adjunct to the medical evaluation.…”

“…In urban settings, because indoor allergen and pollutant triggers in the built environment can exacerbate asthma, home visits can be an important adjunct to the medical evaluation. 39,[69][70][71][72] In academic, private, and institutional health system settings, cross-cultural education to reduce provider bias is crucial. 6 More inverventional studies such as the BRief Evaluation of Asthma Therapy study will be instrumental in the future to help inform efforts to correct asthma disparities and inequities.…”