Certified Asthma Educator (AE-C)

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The role of the asthma educator increased since the 1990s as research has shown the importance of a well-educated, informed patient. Prior to this national certification, there were multiple "certificate" programs offered by various sources, including local American Lung Association chapters. There was no regulation of these programs and no means to measure outcomes. By providing a certification process, patients, providers and healthcare payers can be assured that a Certified Asthma Educator (AE-C^®)has met stringent criteria based upon scientifically sound concepts. The NAECB is the only organization in the United States providing a national certification process. Asthma specialists have recognized the need for a standardized process to certify asthma educators and to evaluate their effectiveness in disease management.

Asthma Educator Definition:[1] An asthma educator is an expert in teaching, educating, and counseling individuals with asthma and their families in the knowledge and skills necessary to minimize the impact of asthma on their quality of life. The educator possesses comprehensive, current knowledge of asthma pathophysiology and management including developmental theories, cultural dimensions, the impact of chronic illness, and principles of teaching-learning. The educator is knowledgeable about objective and subjective evaluations used to diagnose asthma and assess its control. The educator capably instructs individuals with asthma on the optimal use of medications and delivery devices particularly explaining technical concepts to individuals in language each can understand. The educator conducts thorough assessments of individuals and families to identify strengths and resources as well as negative psychological factors, the social and economic impact of asthma, educational needs, and barriers to optimal healthcare and self-management. The educator works with an individual with asthma, his/her family, and other healthcare professionals to develop, implement, monitor, and revise an asthma action plan customized to the individual’s needs, environment, disease severity, and lifestyle to optimize the individual’s self-management skills. The educator monitors asthma education program outcomes and recommends modifications to improve quality and effectiveness. The educator serves as a resource to the community by providing information about asthma as well as healthcare and community resources. A primary job responsibility of the certified asthma educator is the provision of asthma coordination and counseling services.