DOH Logo linking to the DOH Home Page Washington Asthma Program  
Blue Line Image
Site Directory:       Section Links:
Asthma Home
For You
In the Schools
In the Community
In the Workplace
For Health Care Providers
Data and Publications
Contacting Us

Follow DOH on Twitter

Access Washington Logo linking to Access Washington

What Should I Expect from my Health Care Provider?

It is important to work closely with your doctor or other health care provider to learn how to manage your asthma. This is the key to keeping your asthma under control.

Your health care provider's role is to:

  • Talk with you about your asthma treatment goals and how to achieve them.
  • Give you a written asthma action plan—and make sure you understand and know how to use it.
  • Discuss the medicines you should take and demonstrate how to take them.
  • Teach you how to monitor your symptoms.
  • Discuss your asthma triggers with you and suggest how to avoid them.
  • Describe the possible warning signs of an asthma attack and explain clearly what you should do if you feel an attack coming on.

Your role is to:

  • Ask questions and participate in decisions about your treatment.
  • Discuss your treatment goals with your doctor and come to an agreement on what you can expect from treatment.
  • Do what your doctor recommends, including taking your medicines as prescribed and monitoring your asthma on a regular basis.
  • Keep your doctor informed about changes in your condition.
  • Visit your doctor about every 6 months to review your written asthma action plan.
How Can I Manage my Asthma?
Asthma and the Environment
What Should I Expect from my Health Care Provider?