02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 02760, North Attleboro, Massachusetts is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near ZIP Code 02760

Living with asthma demands proactive care, and choosing the right healthcare provider is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 02760 (Seekonk, MA) to provide a fact-rich assessment of their asthma-related services, helping patients make informed decisions. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, offering a comprehensive "Asthma Score" perspective.

**Proximity and Flagship Institutions:**

The immediate vicinity of 02760 is largely served by hospitals in the Providence, Rhode Island, area, and the greater Boston region. While Seekonk itself has limited hospital options, residents can access a range of facilities within a reasonable driving distance. The "Asthma Score" considers both proximity and the reputation of these institutions.

**Rhode Island Hospitals: A Closer Look**

**Rhode Island Hospital (Providence, RI):** This is a major player, and the flagship hospital of Lifespan Health System. Rhode Island Hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. For asthma patients, this rating provides a general indicator of the hospital's commitment to quality. While not a specific asthma rating, it's a valuable data point. ER wait times are a critical factor. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website shows the average ER wait time at Rhode Island Hospital to be approximately 40-60 minutes, though this can fluctuate. Patients experiencing an asthma exacerbation need timely care, so this is an important consideration. Rhode Island Hospital has a dedicated pulmonary and critical care division, which handles complex respiratory cases, including severe asthma.

**Women & Infants Hospital (Providence, RI):** While primarily focused on women's health, Women & Infants Hospital, also part of Lifespan, offers specialized services that can be relevant to some asthma patients. For instance, pregnant women with asthma require specialized care, and this hospital provides that. The CMS star rating for Women & Infants is 5 stars, reflecting consistently high performance.

**Hasbro Children's Hospital (Providence, RI):** Part of the Lifespan system, Hasbro Children's Hospital is a dedicated pediatric facility. For children with asthma, this is a critical resource. Hasbro has a well-established pediatric pulmonology department. They are equipped to manage all levels of pediatric asthma, from mild to severe. ER wait times at Hasbro are generally shorter than at Rhode Island Hospital, often under 30 minutes, which is crucial for children experiencing breathing difficulties.

**Miriam Hospital (Providence, RI):** Another Lifespan facility, Miriam Hospital is a 4-star rated hospital. While not a primary asthma center, it offers comprehensive medical services, and patients can access pulmonary specialists through referrals. ER wait times are in line with Rhode Island Hospital, around 45-60 minutes.

**Massachusetts Hospitals: Expanding the Scope**

**Massachusetts General Hospital (Boston, MA):** Located approximately a 1-hour drive from 02760, Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) is a world-renowned institution. MGH holds a 5-star CMS rating, a testament to its commitment to excellence. MGH has a highly regarded pulmonary and critical care division, specializing in complex respiratory conditions, including severe asthma. Their ER wait times, while variable, can be longer than those in Rhode Island, often exceeding an hour. However, the expertise and resources available at MGH make it a strong option for complex cases.

**Brigham and Women's Hospital (Boston, MA):** Another major Boston hospital, Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) is also a 5-star rated facility. BWH's pulmonary division is highly regarded. They offer comprehensive asthma management, including specialized clinics and research programs. ER wait times at BWH are similar to MGH, potentially longer than those in Providence.

**Sturdy Memorial Hospital (Attleboro, MA):** Closer to 02760, Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA, provides a more local option. Sturdy Memorial has a 3-star CMS rating. They offer emergency services and access to pulmonologists, though the scope of specialized asthma care may be less extensive than at larger Boston or Providence hospitals. ER wait times at Sturdy Memorial are generally shorter, typically under 45 minutes.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Resources:**

Beyond general hospital services, the "Asthma Score" assesses the availability of specialized asthma centers and resources.

* **Asthma Centers:** Major hospitals like MGH, BWH, and Rhode Island Hospital often have dedicated asthma clinics or specialized programs. These centers provide comprehensive care, including diagnostic testing, personalized treatment plans, and patient education.
* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Many hospitals offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which are particularly beneficial for patients with chronic asthma. These programs include exercise training, education, and support to improve lung function and quality of life.
* **Allergy and Immunology:** Access to allergists and immunologists is crucial for managing asthma, as allergies are a common trigger. Hospitals with strong allergy and immunology departments are highly valued.
* **Pediatric Pulmonology:** For children, specialized pediatric pulmonologists are essential. Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence is a primary resource for pediatric asthma care.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in asthma management. The "Asthma Score" considers the availability of telehealth services.

* **Virtual Consultations:** Many hospitals offer virtual consultations with pulmonologists and other specialists. This can be especially helpful for routine follow-up appointments and medication adjustments.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some hospitals use remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, to track patients' lung function and oxygen levels at home. This allows for proactive intervention and can help prevent asthma exacerbations.
* **Telehealth Statistics:** While specific telehealth usage statistics for individual hospitals are not always publicly available, it's important to inquire about telehealth options during the initial consultation.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

ER wait times are a critical factor in asthma care. Patients experiencing an asthma exacerbation need prompt medical attention.

* **Triage Protocols:** Hospitals should have clear triage protocols for asthma patients, ensuring that those with breathing difficulties are seen quickly.
* **Medication Availability:** ERs should have readily available asthma medications, such as bronchodilators and corticosteroids.
* **Observation Units:** Some ERs have observation units where asthma patients can be monitored for a period of time before being discharged.

**Patient Experience and Reviews:**

Patient reviews and experiences are valuable indicators of hospital quality. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the CMS Hospital Compare website offer patient satisfaction scores and reviews.

* **Patient Satisfaction Surveys:** The CMS Hospital Compare website includes patient satisfaction scores based on surveys. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and cleanliness of the hospital.
* **Online Reviews:** Reading online reviews from other asthma patients can provide insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience.

**The "Asthma Score" Summary:**

The "Asthma Score" is a holistic assessment, considering the following factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A general indicator of hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Crucial for timely care during an exacerbation.
* **Specialty Centers:** Availability of asthma clinics, pulmonary rehabilitation, and allergy services.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Access to virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Patient Reviews:** Insights into patient experiences and satisfaction.
* **Proximity:** Ease of access for residents of 02760.

**Recommendations for 02760 Residents:**

For residents of 02760, the optimal choice depends on individual needs and the severity of their asthma.

* **For routine care and less severe asthma:** Consider Sturdy Memorial Hospital in Attleboro, MA, or Rhode Island Hospital in Providence, RI. Evaluate ER wait times and access to pulmonologists.
* **For complex or severe asthma:** Massachusetts General Hospital (MGH) or Brigham and Women's Hospital (BWH) in Boston offer specialized expertise, but be prepared for potentially longer travel times and ER wait times.
* **For pediatric asthma:** Hasbro Children's Hospital in Providence, RI, is a primary resource.
* **Prioritize:** Evaluate the availability of telehealth options and asthma-specific resources.
* **Consult:** Consult with your primary care physician and pulmonologist to determine the best hospital for your individual needs.

This "Asthma Score" review provides a starting point for making informed decisions about asthma care near ZIP code 02760. Remember to consider your individual needs, preferences, and the latest available information when choosing a healthcare provider.