Denver Launches Innovative Air Monitoring System in Health Clinics: What You Need to Know

Patients, staff, and the community at three Denver health clinics will soon gain better access to real-time local air quality data thanks to the expansion of the city’s Love My Air program. This initiative is supported by the Kaiser Permanente Community Health Fund through the Denver Foundation.

In April 2025, community leaders, including Mayor Mike Johnston and representatives from Kaiser Permanente, unveiled new air quality monitoring stations and educational kiosks at Tepeyac Community Health Center, Inner City Health, and the Kaiser Permanente East Denver Medical Offices.

“Real-time air quality monitoring helps everyone understand how pollution affects our environment and health,” said Mayor Johnston. “We are thankful for our partners in bringing this vital information to the places where people seek medical help.”

Launched in 2018, Love My Air uses advanced monitors to track air pollution levels. The program also features interactive kiosks in schools and a mobile app that shares air quality information across Denver neighborhoods. The app provides easy access to data and guides in both English and Spanish, helping users plan outdoor activities and reduce exposure to harmful pollutants.

“Access to real-time air quality data is crucial, especially for communities affected by high levels of air pollution,” said Mike Ramseier, president of Kaiser Permanente in Colorado. “This aligns with our mission to improve health for the communities we serve.”

The Health Impacts of Pollution

Expanding the program to health clinics makes sense. Nancy Fitzgerald, a program specialist with Love My Air, pointed out that research shows people are more likely to respond to air quality advice when it comes from healthcare professionals.

Air pollution contributes to tens of thousands of deaths each year in the U.S. It leads to various health problems, including respiratory issues and heart disease. The impact is especially severe for children, who can suffer long-term developmental consequences.

“Local information can empower individuals to make healthier choices,” said Dr. Chris Fellenz, a family medicine physician at Kaiser Permanente. He shared his own experience as an asthmatic, noting that he avoids walks on poor air quality days. With better access to air quality data, patients can take steps to protect their health.

This effort also reflects a growing trend in public health to connect environmental issues with community well-being. Access to accurate air quality data provides crucial support for vulnerable communities and helps them navigate health risks.

For more details, explore Love My Air’s air quality dashboard.

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