Stock Inhaler for Schools Program in Maricopa County, Arizona: 2023–2024 Data Analysis

Abstract

Purpose: This program evaluation analyzed Maricopa County Department of Public Health (MCDPH) 2023-2024 Stock Inhaler for Schools Program data following an updated 2023 compliance training and compared it to 2022-2023 data, focusing on school characteristics, compliance rates to program protocol, and program outcomes. The analysis aimed to assess compliance rate improvements and identify program growth opportunities. Background: The Stock Inhaler for Schools Program provides rescue albuterol to students experiencing respiratory distress when personal rescue inhalers are unavailable. The MCDPH tracks stock albuterol event data on the School Surveillance Medication Program (SSMP) site to assess the program's impact on student outcomes and compliance with the medication administration protocol. Program training was updated to address suboptimal non-compliance rates with the program protocol. Methods:A descriptive analysis was conducted on deidentified data from the 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 stock albuterol event logs. School and recipient characteristics, compliance rates to the protocol, and program outcomes were compared. Findings were shared with the MCDPH SSMP team for review. Results: In 2023-2024, 939 stock inhaler events were reported, a 39% increase from 2022-2023. Non-compliance rates dropped from 20.27% to 7.56%. Public and elementary/multi-level schools reported the most events, with many recipients having an asthma diagnosis. Notably, 73.1% of individuals returned to class, and only 0.6% required emergency transport. Conclusions: The Stock Inhaler for Schools Program has shown significant growth, increased protocol compliance, and positive outcomes in Maricopa County, Arizona schools. Areas for further improvement include clarifying staff licensure and triggering activities.