02180, Stoneham, Massachusetts Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 02180, Stoneham, Massachusetts is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Quincy, MA (02180)

Navigating asthma care can be daunting, especially when a sudden attack strikes. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospital options near Quincy, MA (ZIP code 02180), focusing on key metrics relevant to asthma patients, including emergency room wait times, specialty center availability, telehealth options, and overall quality ratings. This information is designed to empower patients and their families to make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

The primary hospitals serving the 02180 area are located within a reasonable driving distance. These include major Boston hospitals and local community hospitals. Access to rapid and effective care is critical during an asthma exacerbation.

**Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton:**

Located a short drive from Quincy, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton is a key player in the local healthcare landscape. While not a flagship Boston hospital, it offers a vital service for the community. As of the latest available data, Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on various factors including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. ER wait times are a crucial factor for asthma patients. Recent data indicates that the average ER wait time at Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton is around 2 hours. This time can fluctuate depending on the day of the week and the volume of patients. For asthma patients, this wait time should be considered, as prompt treatment is essential. The hospital offers a range of services, including pulmonary medicine. Telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management, are increasingly important. Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton has expanded its telehealth offerings, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring.

**Boston Medical Center (BMC):**

Boston Medical Center (BMC), located in Boston, is a major teaching hospital and a significant regional resource. BMC is a 3-star hospital according to CMS. BMC has a dedicated pulmonary medicine department, offering comprehensive care for asthma and other respiratory conditions. BMC's ER wait times can vary, often longer than community hospitals due to the volume of patients. The average ER wait time at BMC is approximately 3 hours, but this can be significantly higher during peak hours. BMC has a robust telehealth program. They offer telehealth consultations for both new and established patients. BMC is a major research institution, and it is often at the forefront of new asthma treatments and therapies.

**Brigham and Women's Hospital:**

Brigham and Women's Hospital, another flagship Boston hospital, is a highly regarded institution known for its advanced medical care. Brigham and Women's Hospital is a 5-star hospital according to CMS. Brigham and Women's Hospital has a strong pulmonary and critical care division, offering specialized asthma care. ER wait times at Brigham and Women's Hospital can be variable, but the hospital strives to provide timely care. The average ER wait time is approximately 2.5 hours. Brigham and Women's Hospital has a comprehensive telehealth program, including remote monitoring for patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

**Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH):**

Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is a renowned teaching hospital and a leader in medical innovation. MGH is a 5-star hospital according to CMS. MGH has a highly specialized pulmonary division with expertise in managing complex asthma cases. ER wait times at MGH can fluctuate, but the hospital is committed to efficient patient care. The average ER wait time is approximately 2 hours. MGH offers a wide range of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring.

**South Shore Hospital:**

South Shore Hospital, located in nearby Weymouth, is another important option for residents of the 02180 area. South Shore Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. South Shore Hospital offers a pulmonary medicine department and provides emergency care services. ER wait times at South Shore Hospital are typically shorter than those at the larger Boston hospitals. The average ER wait time is around 1.5 hours. South Shore Hospital is expanding its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Specialty Centers and Resources:**

Beyond the general hospital services, certain specialty centers can provide targeted asthma care. While not always located directly within the 02180 area, they are accessible.

* **Pulmonary Specialists:** Access to board-certified pulmonologists is critical for asthma management. Many of the hospitals mentioned above have pulmonary specialists on staff.
* **Allergy and Immunology Clinics:** Allergies are a common trigger for asthma. Allergy clinics offer testing and treatment for environmental and food allergies.
* **Asthma Education Programs:** Some hospitals offer asthma education programs to help patients and their families manage the condition effectively. These programs often cover topics like medication management, trigger avoidance, and emergency action plans.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for asthma patients. When choosing a hospital, consider the average wait times, especially during peak hours. The availability of respiratory therapists and rapid access to nebulizer treatments are also important factors. The closest and most accessible ER may not always be the best choice, especially if wait times are excessive.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in asthma management. Virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and medication refills can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits. When selecting a healthcare provider, inquire about their telehealth capabilities.

**CMS Star Ratings:**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally have better patient outcomes and a higher level of care. However, it's important to consider other factors, such as ER wait times, specialty center availability, and your individual needs when making a decision.

**Medication and Treatment Availability:**

Ensure that the hospital's pharmacy stocks the necessary asthma medications, including rescue inhalers, controller medications, and any other specific treatments you may require.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Confirm that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network to avoid unexpected costs.

**Patient Experience:**

Consider patient reviews and testimonials when evaluating hospitals. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable insights into patient experiences.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near Quincy, MA (02180) requires careful consideration of various factors. While Boston's flagship hospitals offer advanced care, community hospitals like Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital–Milton and South Shore Hospital provide convenient access. Evaluate ER wait times, specialty center availability, telehealth options, and overall quality ratings to make the best decision for your individual needs. Always have an asthma action plan and carry your rescue inhaler. When in doubt, seek immediate medical attention.