Suffolk County is using a special program to improve the quality of life for asthma sufferers.

Doctors in Suffolk health clinics are now working toward helping patients manage their asthma, decrease their dependence on medication and lessen the need for trips to the emergency room.

Suffolk County Health Commissioner Dr. Humayun Chaudhry says education is a big part of the program. The pilot asthma program has been instituted at clinics in Wyandanch and Coram, but it will soon be in all 11 Suffolk health clinics.

The pilot program is part of a new focus on preventive medicine in Suffolk County. Executive Steve Levy recently added a preventive medicine division to the Suffolk County Department of Health.

County health officials estimate the new program could save about $370,000 a year in Medicaid costs.

To watch an interview with Suffolk Exec. Levy about the asthma initiative, go to channel 612 on your iO digital cable box and select iO Extra.

What Is Asthma? MedlinePlus