DPHHS: World Asthma Day
Author: Jon Ebelt, DPHHS Communications Director
World Asthma Day: DPHHS Empowers Montanans to Take Control of Their Health.
In celebration of World Asthma Day on May 5, 2026, the Department of Public Health and Human Services (DPHHS) is highlighting the success of statewide initiatives designed to help Montanans breathe easier.
This year’s mission focuses on ensuring that every person living with asthma has the tools, education, and access to medication necessary to lead an active, healthy life.
“Our goal is to ensure that geography or cost never stand in the way of a Montanan’s ability to breathe easier,” said BJ Biskupiak, Program Manager for the Montana Asthma Control Program (MACP). “By providing free education and tools, we’re helping people stay out of the hospital and get back to doing the things they enjoy.”
Asthma affects thousands of Montana families, but with the right support, it doesn't have to limit daily activities. The MACP works to bridge the gap between diagnosis and effective long-term management.
A central part of these efforts is the Montana Asthma Home Visiting Program (MAP). This free service has already helped over 950 Montanans gain the upper hand over their symptoms. The program offers a comprehensive, 12-month support system that includes:
* Personalized Coaching: One-on-one sessions with health care professionals to master inhaler techniques and create an Asthma Action Plan.
* Healthier Homes: Free environmental assessments and a HEPA air purifier to reduce triggers like dust and smoke.
* Proven Outcomes: Participants report fewer emergency room visits, fewer missed school or work days, and a significant increase in symptom-free days.
To ensure medication is accessible to all, the MACP partners with local pharmacies, schools, and clinics to streamline care. While 13% of Montana adults with asthma have reported challenges in filling prescriptions due to cost, the MACP provides resources through covermt.org to help families navigate insurance and assistance programs.
Additionally, as wildfire season approaches, the program is actively preparing communities with smoke-readiness education to maintain clean indoor air for those with sensitive respiratory systems.
Living well with asthma starts with the right information. Montanans are encouraged to explore available free resources:
Enroll in the MAP Program:
https://asthma.mt.gov
Track Air Quality:
https://todaysair.mtdeq.us
Health Impacts of Air Quality:
https://airquality.mt.gov
Global Asthma Resources:
https://ginasthma.org
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