Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common questions about advanced asthma care at our Plantation, FL clinic.

About Advanced Asthma Care

What makes your clinic different from my regular pulmonologist?: Our clinic specializes exclusively in difficult-to-treat asthma and related conditions. We offer access to advanced diagnostic testing (like FeNO, detailed PFTs, biomarker analysis), the full range of FDA-approved biologic therapies, and participation in cutting-edge clinical trials, often providing options not available in standard practices. Dr. Hull focuses on identifying your specific asthma endotype for highly personalized treatment.
What is a biologic therapy and how is it different from my inhalers?: Biologic therapies are specialized medications (usually injections or infusions) that target specific molecules or cells in the immune system responsible for driving asthma inflammation (like IL-5, IL-4, IL-13, IgE, TSLP). Unlike inhalers that provide broader anti-inflammatory effects or open airways, biologics precisely interrupt the specific inflammatory pathways causing YOUR type of severe asthma. They are typically used for moderate-to-severe asthma not well-controlled by inhalers.
Will I need to stop seeing my current doctor?: Not necessarily. We work collaboratively with your primary care physician and/or referring pulmonologist or allergist. We provide specialized care focused on controlling severe asthma, often managing advanced therapies, while your other doctors continue your general care. We ensure coordinated communication with your healthcare team.

What tests will I need?: Testing is tailored but often includes comprehensive pulmonary function testing (spirometry, lung volumes, DLCO), Fractional exhaled nitric oxide (FeNO), blood tests for inflammatory markers (like eosinophil count and IgE), and allergy testing if indicated. Some situations might require imaging or challenge tests.
How do you determine what type of asthma I have?: We identify your asthma endotype (the underlying biological mechanism) using a combination of your clinical history, symptom patterns, response to previous treatments, specialized pulmonary function tests, and biomarker results (blood tests like eosinophils/IgE, and breath tests like FeNO).
How long does the initial evaluation take?: The first visit typically lasts 60-90 minutes for a detailed interview and initial assessment. Further testing might be scheduled over subsequent visits depending on complexity. Developing the full personalized plan usually occurs after all initial test results are back.

How quickly will I notice results from biologic therapy?: Response times vary. Some patients notice improvements in symptoms or reduced exacerbations within a few weeks, while for others it might take 3-6 months to see the maximum benefit. We monitor your progress closely.
Are biologic treatments covered by insurance?: Most insurance plans, including Medicare, cover FDA-approved biologic therapies for appropriate patients, but they almost always require prior authorization. Our dedicated staff works extensively with your insurance company to obtain approval and explore financial assistance programs to minimize your out-of-pocket costs.
How often will I need to visit the clinic?: After the initial evaluation phase, visits for biologic injections typically occur every 2-8 weeks, depending on the specific medication. Follow-up evaluation appointments with Dr. Hull are generally scheduled every 3-6 months, or more frequently if needed, to monitor your progress and adjust treatment.
Can I stop taking my other asthma medications if I start a biologic?: Usually not immediately. Biologics are typically added to your existing controller medications (like inhaled steroids). As your asthma control improves significantly with the biologic, we may be able to carefully reduce or sometimes even stop some of your other medications, but this is done gradually under close supervision.

How do I know if I'm eligible for a clinical trial?: Eligibility depends on the specific study's inclusion and exclusion criteria (age, diagnosis, severity, previous treatments, other health conditions). During your evaluation, if you're interested, our research team will assess your potential eligibility for currently enrolling trials at our Plantation clinic.
What are the risks and benefits of participating in a clinical trial?: Benefits include access to potentially cutting-edge treatments at no cost, free study-related medical care and testing, reimbursement for time/travel, and contributing to medical advancement. Risks may include potential side effects of the investigational treatment (which may or may not be known) and the possibility the treatment may not be effective for you. All known risks and benefits are discussed thoroughly during the informed consent process before you decide to participate.
Can I continue my regular asthma medications during a trial?: This depends entirely on the specific trial protocol. Some studies require participants to be on certain background medications, while others may require stopping specific ones. This will be clearly explained before you enroll.

Will I ever be able to reduce or stop my oral steroids?: Reducing or eliminating the need for oral steroids (like prednisone) is a primary goal for many patients starting advanced therapies like biologics. While success varies, many patients with previously steroid-dependent asthma are able to significantly decrease or stop oral steroids after finding an effective targeted treatment.
How can I manage asthma triggers in South Florida?: We provide education on identifying and managing common Florida triggers like high pollen counts (especially oak, pine, ragweed), humidity, mold, dust mites, and pollution (like ozone). This includes personalized environmental control strategies for your home, guidance on using air quality monitoring tools, and action plans for managing unavoidable exposures.
What lifestyle changes can help my asthma beyond medication?: While medication is key, we also discuss supportive lifestyle strategies such as appropriate exercise (pulmonary rehabilitation if needed), maintaining a healthy weight, stress management techniques, breathing exercises, ensuring good sleep hygiene (and screening for sleep apnea if suspected), and avoiding tobacco smoke and vaping.

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