Optimizing pediatric asthma education using virtual platforms during the COVID-19 pandemic

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Pulmonology
• Health Education
• Digital Health

Background:

• Assessing patient and caregiver knowledge and confidence in asthma management.
• Comparing in-person versus virtual delivery of comprehensive asthma education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the effectiveness and user experience of virtual asthma education compared to in-person delivery.
• To determine if virtual asthma education impacts knowledge and confidence in asthma self-management.

Main Methods:

• Multi-methods study involving structured surveys and qualitative interviews.
• Data collected from patients and caregivers post-asthma education (April 2018 - October 2021).
• Comparison of knowledge, confidence, and user experience between in-person and virtual attendees.

Main Results:

• 100 participants completed surveys and interviews (52 in-person, 48 virtual).
• No significant difference in reported knowledge or confidence gains between virtual and in-person groups.
• 65.2% preferred virtual asthma education, citing safety, convenience, and accessibility.

Conclusions:

• Virtual asthma education program successfully implemented for pediatric asthma patients and caregivers.
• Both virtual and in-person education equally improved perceived asthma self-management knowledge and confidence.
• Virtual asthma education is a safe, convenient, and accessible option to enhance program reach and patient benefit.