35764, Paint Rock, Alabama Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 35764, Paint Rock, Alabama is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Care in the Huntsville Area: A Deep Dive for 35764 Residents

Residents of the 35764 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Madison, Alabama, have several options for asthma care within a reasonable driving distance. This review examines the key hospitals in the Huntsville metropolitan area, focusing on their asthma-related services, performance metrics, and accessibility, including telehealth options. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Huntsville Hospital: The Flagship and Its Asthma Services**

Huntsville Hospital, located at 101 Sivley Road, Huntsville, AL 35801, is the largest hospital in the region and a significant player in asthma care. As the flagship facility, it boasts a comprehensive range of services. While specific, dedicated "Asthma Centers" are not typically branded, asthma management is integrated into the broader pulmonary services. The hospital provides diagnostic testing, including pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and allergy testing, crucial for accurate asthma diagnosis and severity assessment. They offer both inpatient and outpatient care, allowing for continuous management of chronic conditions.

Huntsville Hospital's Emergency Department (ED) sees a high volume of patients. According to recent data, the average ED wait time is around 30 minutes. This figure can fluctuate, particularly during peak hours or seasonal surges in respiratory illnesses. For asthma patients experiencing acute exacerbations, timely access to the ED is critical, and understanding the current wait times is essential. The hospital's CMS star rating is currently at 3 stars. This rating reflects overall quality and patient experience across various metrics, including readmission rates and patient satisfaction.

**Specialty Centers and Resources at Huntsville Hospital**

Huntsville Hospital houses several specialty centers that indirectly support asthma care. The hospital's Children's & Women's Hospital, located on the same campus, is particularly relevant for pediatric asthma patients. It offers specialized pediatric pulmonology services and a dedicated pediatric ED, providing age-appropriate care and expertise. Additionally, the hospital’s allergy and immunology specialists can play a vital role in identifying and managing allergic triggers that exacerbate asthma symptoms.

**Telehealth at Huntsville Hospital**

Telehealth is increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Huntsville Hospital offers telehealth services, although specific asthma-related telehealth offerings may vary. Patients can inquire about virtual consultations with pulmonologists, follow-up appointments, and medication management through the hospital's telehealth platform. The availability and types of telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Crestwood Medical Center: A Community Option**

Crestwood Medical Center, located at 500 Governors Dr SE, Huntsville, AL 35801, provides another option for asthma care in the area. While smaller than Huntsville Hospital, Crestwood offers a full range of services, including an ED, pulmonary services, and respiratory therapy. They also provide diagnostic testing to assess lung function and identify triggers.

Crestwood Medical Center’s ED wait times are generally comparable to Huntsville Hospital, averaging around 30 minutes. This is an important consideration for patients experiencing asthma flare-ups. The hospital’s CMS star rating is currently 3 stars.

**Specialty Centers and Resources at Crestwood Medical Center**

Crestwood Medical Center doesn't have dedicated pediatric pulmonary specialists on staff. However, they provide pediatric care through their general pediatric services. The hospital also offers allergy and immunology services to help manage allergic triggers.

**Telehealth at Crestwood Medical Center**

Crestwood Medical Center also offers telehealth services, but specific asthma-related offerings should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Patients can inquire about virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Decatur Morgan Hospital: A Regional Consideration**

While located further afield in Decatur, Alabama, Decatur Morgan Hospital, located at 1201 14th Ave SE, Decatur, AL 35601, is a regional option for residents of the 35764 ZIP code. Decatur Morgan Hospital offers a full range of services, including an ED, pulmonary services, and respiratory therapy. They also provide diagnostic testing to assess lung function and identify triggers.

Decatur Morgan Hospital’s ED wait times are generally comparable to Huntsville Hospital, averaging around 30 minutes. This is an important consideration for patients experiencing asthma flare-ups. The hospital’s CMS star rating is currently 3 stars.

**Specialty Centers and Resources at Decatur Morgan Hospital**

Decatur Morgan Hospital doesn't have dedicated pediatric pulmonary specialists on staff. However, they provide pediatric care through their general pediatric services. The hospital also offers allergy and immunology services to help manage allergic triggers.

**Telehealth at Decatur Morgan Hospital**

Decatur Morgan Hospital also offers telehealth services, but specific asthma-related offerings should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Patients can inquire about virtual consultations and follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations for Asthma Patients**

Beyond hospital-based care, residents of 35764 should consider several other factors when managing their asthma.

* **Primary Care Physicians:** A strong relationship with a primary care physician (PCP) is crucial. PCPs can provide ongoing asthma management, medication refills, and referrals to specialists when needed.
* **Allergy Specialists:** Allergy testing and treatment can be essential for identifying and managing asthma triggers.
* **Respiratory Therapists:** Respiratory therapists play a vital role in teaching proper inhaler techniques, providing breathing exercises, and monitoring lung function.
* **Medication Access:** Ensure easy access to prescribed asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and controller medications.
* **Asthma Action Plan:** Develop a personalized asthma action plan in consultation with a healthcare provider. This plan should outline steps to take when asthma symptoms worsen.
* **Environmental Control:** Take steps to minimize exposure to asthma triggers in the home and workplace. This includes controlling dust mites, mold, and allergens.

**Accessibility and Travel Time**

The proximity of these hospitals to the 35764 ZIP code is generally favorable. Huntsville Hospital and Crestwood Medical Center are easily accessible, with travel times typically under 30 minutes. Decatur Morgan Hospital is further away, with travel times exceeding 45 minutes. Travel time should be a consideration, especially during an asthma exacerbation.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for asthma patients. While the average wait times at the hospitals mentioned are around 30 minutes, it is important to note that these times can fluctuate. Patients experiencing severe asthma symptoms should be prepared for potential delays and consider calling ahead to the ED to inquire about current wait times.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Residents of the 35764 ZIP code have several viable options for asthma care. Huntsville Hospital, as the flagship facility, offers the most comprehensive services. Crestwood Medical Center provides a solid community option, and Decatur Morgan Hospital is a regional consideration. Choosing the best hospital depends on individual needs, preferences, and the severity of asthma. Patients should consider factors such as ED wait times, the availability of specialized services, and the convenience of location. Regular communication with a primary care physician and adherence to a personalized asthma action plan are essential for effective asthma management. Always confirm the most up-to-date information, including telehealth availability and ED wait times, directly with the hospitals.