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Pulmonology

Asthma Program

(415) 353-7337

One in 12 children suffers from asthma. If not adequately treated, the recurring bouts of coughing, wheezing and breathlessness can interfere with sleep, exercise and daily activities and in general undermine a child's quality of life. At UCSF's Pediatric Asthma Program our team of pediatric pulmonologists, nurse practitioners and respiratory therapists work closely with children, their families and their primary care doctors to help patients control their symptoms and lead active, normal lives.

We treat infants, children and adolescents, particularly those with cases that are difficult to control. Our program includes a thorough evaluation, including lung function measurement and allergy testing, since many cases are linked to allergies. We also provide comprehensive education on asthma and ongoing management to ensure the best possible care.

Our locations (2)

    Our team

    Awards & recognition

    • U S News and World Report badge recognizing UCSF Benioff among the Best Children's Hospitals for Pulmonology, 2024-2025

      One of the nation's best for pulmonology & lung surgery

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    Preparing for your appointment

    What to Bring

    • Photo I.D.
    • Health insurance card
    • Insurance authorization, if needed
    • A copy of your child's medical records
    • A copy of medical test results, preferably including chest X-rays and other imaging studies on CD
    • All medications or medical devices your child is using
    • List of questions you may have
    • Device or paper for taking notes

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    Your Stay

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    Your Child's Care Team

    Our doctors, nurses, child life specialists and other providers have special training to care for children. Meet your child's care team.

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    Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance

    Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.

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    Child Life Services

    Activity rooms, pet therapy and more to help kids feel at home.

    Child Life

    Certified child life specialists ease the stress and anxiety of childhood illness through therapeutic play, schooling and family-focused support.

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    Family-friendly amenities help you relax and take care of yourself while staying close to your child. We offer lounges, kitchens, showers, breastfeeding rooms and more.

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    Social Services

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    Activity Rooms

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    Art Therapy

    Art therapy helps kids and families express themselves, making it easier to cope with pediatric health issues. Group and bedside services are available.

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    Music Therapy Program

    Board-certified music therapists help kids cope with illness and the feelings that come with it. Find out about group activities and bedside therapy.

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    School Program

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    School Re-Entry Program

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    Individual Playtime & Instruction

    If your child can't be around other kids for medical reasons, you can sign up for private sessions in our activity and school rooms. Find out how.

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    Interpreter Services & Communication Assistance

    Interpreter services in many languages and TDDs are available for families that need help communicating with care teams. Here's how to access them.

    Family Resource Center

    We help families cope with the challenges of childhood illness and hospitalization in a relaxing environment where parents can get a much-needed break.

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    Parent Support Program

    Weekly activities, including knitting, scrapbooking, chair massage and more, help family caregivers get a much-needed break. Find out more.

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    Patient Relations

    Patient relations reps and nursing supervisors are here to answer questions and address concerns. Learn about your rights, how to reach us and more.

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    Spiritual Care

    Chaplains help UCSF patients, families and staff cope with the spiritual and emotional challenges of childhood illness. Learn more.

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    International Services

    If you're coming to UCSF from outside the U.S., we coordinate your child's appointments and provide other helpful services. Here's how to get started.

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