06373, Oneco, Connecticut Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 06373, Oneco, Connecticut is 73 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 06373

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a daunting task, especially when considering factors like proximity, quality of care, and accessibility. This review focuses on hospitals near the 06373 ZIP code (Stonington, Connecticut) to provide a fact-rich overview, assessing their strengths and weaknesses in asthma care. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options to help you make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Considerations:**

The 06373 ZIP code is located in southeastern Connecticut, placing residents within a reasonable driving distance of several hospitals. The primary hospitals serving this area include Lawrence + Memorial Hospital (L+M) in New London and Westerly Hospital in Rhode Island, though other facilities offer specialized care.

**Lawrence + Memorial Hospital (L+M), New London, CT:**

L+M is a key player in the region's healthcare landscape. This hospital is a member of Yale New Haven Health, offering a broad spectrum of services. However, specific data on L+M's asthma-specific care is limited in publicly available sources.

* **CMS Star Rating:** L+M currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. While not directly asthma-focused, this rating offers a general indication of the hospital's performance.
* **Emergency Room:** L+M's ER is a critical access point for acute asthma exacerbations. While specific ER wait times for asthma patients aren't readily available, general ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should expect potential wait times, especially during peak hours. It's recommended to contact the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information.
* **Specialty Centers:** L+M has a pulmonary medicine department that is crucial for asthma management. The hospital's website provides information on the pulmonologists and respiratory therapists who specialize in diagnosing and treating respiratory conditions.
* **Telehealth:** L+M offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for asthma patients. Telehealth appointments can provide convenient access to follow-up care, medication management, and education. The availability of telehealth services may vary depending on the specialist and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Westerly Hospital, Westerly, RI:**

Westerly Hospital, part of Yale New Haven Health, provides another option for residents near 06373. Located just across the state border, this hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care and specialized departments.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Westerly Hospital also holds a 3-star CMS rating, similar to L+M.
* **Emergency Room:** Westerly Hospital's ER is another option for urgent asthma care. As with L+M, specific wait times for asthma patients are not always readily available. Contacting the hospital directly is recommended for the most current information.
* **Specialty Centers:** Westerly Hospital has a pulmonary medicine department. This department is essential for asthma diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management. Information on specific specialists and services can be found on the hospital's website.
* **Telehealth:** Westerly Hospital, as part of Yale New Haven Health, likely offers telehealth services, potentially including options for asthma patients. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact their provider to confirm the availability of telehealth appointments and the types of services offered.

**Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven, CT (Flagship):**

While not immediately adjacent to 06373, Yale New Haven Hospital (YNHH) in New Haven, CT, is a flagship hospital within the Yale New Haven Health system. It's a tertiary care center, meaning it offers specialized care and expertise that may not be available at smaller hospitals.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Yale New Haven Hospital consistently earns a high CMS star rating, often achieving 4 or 5 stars, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient care. This higher rating suggests a strong performance across various quality metrics.
* **Emergency Room:** YNHH's ER is a high-volume facility, and wait times can vary. However, the hospital's resources and specialized staff can be crucial for managing severe asthma exacerbations.
* **Specialty Centers:** YNHH boasts a renowned pulmonary and critical care medicine department. This department houses specialists in asthma, including allergists, pulmonologists, and respiratory therapists. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, innovative treatments, and comprehensive care.
* **Telehealth:** YNHH is a leader in telehealth, providing extensive options for patients. Telehealth appointments can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients, enabling remote monitoring, medication adjustments, and education. The availability of telehealth services may vary depending on the specialist and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the primary hospitals, several other factors can influence asthma care decisions:

* **Pediatric Asthma:** For children with asthma, access to pediatric pulmonologists and specialized pediatric care is essential. The Yale New Haven Children's Hospital, part of YNHH, offers comprehensive pediatric asthma care.
* **Allergy Specialists:** Allergists play a crucial role in diagnosing and managing allergic asthma. Identifying and controlling triggers is key to asthma management.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage can significantly impact access to care. Patients should verify their insurance plan's network and coverage for asthma-related services.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and the patient experience at different hospitals. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

ER wait times are a significant concern for asthma patients, especially during an acute exacerbation. While specific wait times for asthma patients aren't always readily available, general ER wait times can provide a rough estimate. Patients should contact the hospital directly or consult online resources to obtain the most up-to-date information on ER wait times.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth appointments can provide convenient access to follow-up care, medication management, and education. Patients should inquire about telehealth options with their healthcare providers.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near the 06373 ZIP code requires careful consideration of various factors. L+M and Westerly Hospital offer local options, while Yale New Haven Hospital provides a flagship facility with specialized expertise. Patients should evaluate CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options to make informed decisions. Consulting with their primary care physician and asthma specialist is also essential to determine the best course of action for their individual needs. The information provided in this review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your care.