The
West Virginia Asthma Coalition (WVAC) is a diverse group of organizations and
individuals committed to reducing the growing burden of asthma in our state. By
organizing our collective efforts, adopting best practices for quality
management, and utilizing the expertise of leaders in asthma care, WVAC works
to positively impact the lives of people affected by the disease. Most
recently, WVAC successfully campaigned for West Virginia legislation that
allows children with asthma to carry their rescue inhalers with them while in
school.
The
Coalition meets four times a year in different locations throughout the state.
We currently have more than 150 individual members who represent more than 60
organizations, including all the major hospitals in the state, Marshall
University, West Virginia University, the American Lung Association of West
Virginia, the Department of Health and Human Resources, the Asthma and Allergy
Center, West Virginia Health Care Authority, West Virginia Hospital
Association, West Virginia School of Osteopathic Medicine, University of
Charleston, Bluefield State College, several local health departments.
Members
join one of five committees which are: Asthma Management, Community Outreach
and Education, Environment, Data Sharing and Schools and Pediatrics. Through
the committees, members work on projects to implement strategies contained in
the Strategic Plan for Addressing Asthma
in West Virginia 2004-2009. For example, the Coalition recently worked to
create and distribute the takeAction!
Addressing Asthma and Diabetes in West Virginia Schools interactive CD-ROM.
The
West Virginia Asthma Coalition was formed by the West Virginia Asthma Education
and Prevention Program (WV-AEPP) and is facilitated by the American Lung
Association of West Virginia. WV-AEPP is funded by the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention, and provides support for WVAC meetings and activities.
If
you are interested in learning more about the Coalition or in joining, please
contact Jessica Isner at 342-6600 or email jisner@lunginfo.org.