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The specific impact of action plans on asthma morbidity is difficult to determine. Although their introduction has been associated with reduced morbidity indexes, only selected patient groups were studied, and, thus, the results may not be generalizable. Control groups are often lacking, and the extent to which improvements are due to other factors, such as regular or higher doses or more appropriate use of inhaled steroids , is difficult to assess. Action plans vary, and no single plan is likely to be suitable for every patient; it must be feasible and applicable to the indvidual patient. Most include an objective self-assessment of asthma severity, indications for and specifics of management change (usually the use of oral steroids), and indications for the summoning of emergency services. Serious self-management errors in the use of oral corticosteroids and in summoning emergency services are common (in 54% and 68%, respectively, of those hospitalized) and readily identifiable . Nevertheless, such errors are infrequently identified by the clinical team and corrective action is taken even less frequently (14% and 7%, respectively) (unpublished observations). These disturbing results occurred in a medical service which in terms of other quality indications were equal or superior to other published results . An essential component of management should be a review of the action plan after each acute attack, and reinforcement and modification of the plan as necessary to prevent future errors.