The South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust started an Asthma Box initiative at Ulster Hospital Emergency Department in May 2025. The program supplies a complete treatment kit for adults arriving with asthma symptoms.

Staff from the Respiratory Hub and Emergency Department created the kit. It holds medication, inhaler technique tools, patient education materials and a personalised asthma action plan.

The kit promotes Maintenance and Reliever Therapy as the standard method. This replaces heavy use of Short-Acting Beta Agonist inhalers.

Dr Arran Lundy, Respiratory Ambulatory Speciality Doctor at the Trust, stated the box provides guideline-based care upon patient assessment. He noted overuse of SABA inhalers connects to higher mortality rates.

Dr Lundy said the box includes a MART therapy inhaler and supports patient information along with follow-up planning. Patients receive a two-week appointment at the Respiratory Ambulatory Hub after leaving the department.

The initiative aims to improve asthma control, lower severe attack risks and reduce hospital admissions. Emergency Department staff assisted in the rollout for smooth operations.