The intervention was based on social cognitive theory, especially self-regulation. In Phase I, the Health Department medical and nursing staffs were taught by Columbia University faculty with reinforcement by Health Department physician and nurse supervisors. Self-regulation was fostered in physicians by use of an Asthma Visit Record and in families by use of an Asthma Diary. Seven pairs of matched clinics were randomized to be controls or receive the intervention. The following hypotheses were tested: that a comprehensive system of continuity of care, including medical care, family health education and community outreach would (1) increase staff confidence to diagnose and treat childhood asthma; (2) attract and retain families who had children with asthma in continuing care relationships in the Health Department clinics; and (3) improve the health status of patients and the quality of life of their families. Phase II tested whether this comprehensive system could be made self-sustaining within the Health Department by having physician and nurse super-visors who took part in Phase I teach the program to staff from a second set of matched clinics. This program had the potential to reach more than 5000 minority children with asthma. If successful it could be generalized to other health departments in the country.