What happens after an Optima member is identified as having asthma?
Optima is notified when a plan member is treated for asthma through claims filed by the treating facility or physician. Once a member is identified as having asthma, the individual is contacted by a member of the Asthma Management Team to talk about their needs and concerns. If the member is unable to be reached, an introduction letter with educational material is mailed to the member requesting that the member contact a respiratory team member.
Who is part of the Asthma Management Team?
The Asthma Management Team is made up of registered nurses, respiratory therapists, and patient service coordinators. This team will work with you to promote healthy behaviors, provide education about asthma and suggestions for optimal treatment, serve as a support system, and help answer any questions you may have about asthma.
What type of support does Optima’s Asthma Program provide?
The Asthma Management Team will mail members with asthma educational materials and booklets about asthma. When a member has additional needs identified by their doctor or through Emergency Room or inpatient hospital visits for asthma, they will be contacted by a member of the Asthma Management Team on the phone to provide additional education and answer any questions or concerns the member might have. Members who have been to the hospital several times for their asthma will be eligible to have a home health nurse come and visit them in their home to talk about the possible causes for their asthma and make suggestions for changing the home environment to reduce these triggers.
If myself or my child has asthma but hasn’t been contacted by a member of the Asthma Management Team, what should I do?
Sometimes we may miss a member at home or have incorrect contact information. If you, or your child has asthma, and would like to participate in the Asthma Program, please call the Member Services telephone number on your Optima Health member card and you will be connected with a case manager who can help answer your questions about asthma.