Healthy Hoops®

Battling asthma and obesity

Healthy Hoops helps kids—and their parents—on and off the court.


Health challenges
Childhood asthma and obesity are epidemic. As of 2010, the CDC reports that nearly 7 million U.S. children have asthma. The chronic illness takes a terrible toll on children in underserved areas. Access to care issues lead to increased ER admissions and significantly higher costs for caregivers and families.

"I think it has helped [my son] manage his asthma as a 7-year old … It can almost be like a life-saving awareness program because a lot of people don't know … the signs of an asthma attack. Once you come to Healthy Hoops, you're aware of everything." - Healthy Hoops participant

AmeriHealth Caritas Pennsylvania identified these chronic conditions and their impact among our membership. To address them, we created Healthy Hoops—a hands-on basketball event for children ages 3 to 18. The initiative teaches kids, parents, and extended families how to manage their asthma and weight through appropriate use of medication, proper nutrition, monitored exercise and recreational activities.

As reported by families, the program also:

  • Increases use of controller medications (with less use of asthma "rescue" medications)
  • Decreases nocturnal awakenings
  • Improves asthma control test results
  • Increases children's self-esteem and overall quality of life

Nationwide:

8,000

children and families involved

3,500

health screenings completed


NCQA recognition
One-to-one clinical support, education, and follow-up care for asthma, obesity, high blood pressure and other related issues make Healthy Hoops one of the most comprehensive intervention programs available. In fact, it has been recognized by the National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) and America's Health Insurance Plans (AHIP) for innovation and leadership.

Count on us to help you manage costs and care for every generation. Call 1-855-398-5613 to learn more about Healthy Hoops.