Asthma is a chronic lung condition that increasingly is being recognized as a major international public health challenge. During the past 15 years, its prevalence around the world has doubled. In the US, rates of asthma deaths, hospitalizations, and emergency department visits have been increasing for more than two decades, especially among African Americans and children.

Although the challenge is formidable, we do know what good asthma care looks like and we are continually increasing our knowledge about good asthma care. The scientific literature, centers of excellence in asthma care, and the experience of hundreds of health care organizations are consistent in pointing to common themes in excellent asthma care — themes that are applicable to a wide range of chronic diseases.

• Assess your organization's current levels of care with respect to the six components of the Chronic Care Model using the Assessment of Chronic Illness Care Survey.

• For some quick tips on Forming a Team, Setting Aims, Establishing Measures, and Testing Changes, take a look at the How to Improve section.

• Try using the "Stoplight" Tool to assist asthma patients with monitoring and managing their chronic condition by dividing various signs and symptoms into "green," "yellow," and "red" management zones.