21710, Adamstown, Maryland Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 21710, Adamstown, Maryland is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21710)

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a challenge. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21710), focusing on key metrics relevant to asthma sufferers, including emergency room wait times, specialized care, and telehealth options. This information is designed to help you make informed decisions about your asthma care.

**Proximity and Key Players:**

The primary healthcare hub for residents of 21710 is Frederick, Maryland. Several hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance, making them potential options for asthma care. This review will focus on the most prominent players in the area, considering their capabilities and performance data.

**Frederick Health Hospital:**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital, is the most immediate and accessible hospital for those in the 21710 ZIP code. It is a comprehensive facility offering a range of services, including an emergency department and specialized respiratory care. While it is the closest option, patients should be aware of its performance data.

**CMS Star Rating:**

FHH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, based on various factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating is considered average, it is important to consider it in the context of your specific needs and the availability of other options.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for asthma patients, who may require immediate attention during an exacerbation. Data on ER wait times at FHH fluctuates, but it's crucial to check the most current data on the hospital's website or through resources like the Maryland Hospital Association before seeking care. This information can help you prepare for potential delays and make informed decisions.

**Specialty Centers and Respiratory Care:**

FHH has a dedicated respiratory therapy department. This department is staffed with respiratory therapists who are trained to manage and treat respiratory conditions, including asthma. They provide services such as nebulizer treatments, oxygen therapy, and pulmonary function testing. The availability of these services is a significant advantage for asthma patients.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, offering convenient access to medical professionals. FHH offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for asthma management. Telehealth appointments can allow for medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and education. Check the hospital's website for current telehealth offerings and the types of asthma-related services available remotely.

**Other Hospitals in the Area:**

While FHH is the closest, other hospitals in the broader region may offer specialized asthma care or have different performance metrics. It is important to consider these options when evaluating the best choice for your needs.

**Meritus Medical Center (Hagerstown, MD):**

Located approximately 40 minutes from Frederick, Meritus Medical Center in Hagerstown is another option for residents of 21710. Meritus is a larger facility with a broader range of specialized services, potentially making it a good choice for complex asthma cases.

**CMS Star Rating:**

Meritus Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to FHH. This rating should be considered alongside other factors when evaluating the hospital's overall quality.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times at Meritus Medical Center can vary. It is essential to consult up-to-date data from the hospital or the Maryland Hospital Association before making a decision.

**Specialty Centers and Respiratory Care:**

Meritus has a respiratory therapy department and offers a range of pulmonary services. They have specialized equipment and trained staff to handle various respiratory conditions, including severe asthma.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Meritus Medical Center offers telehealth services, which can be useful for asthma management. Check their website for specifics on asthma-related telehealth offerings.

**Johns Hopkins Hospital (Baltimore, MD):**

Johns Hopkins Hospital, located in Baltimore (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Frederick), is a nationally recognized center of excellence. While further away, it offers unparalleled specialized care and may be an option for patients with severe or complex asthma.

**CMS Star Rating:**

Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently receives a 5-star rating from CMS, reflecting its high quality of care. This is an important factor to consider, particularly for complex medical needs.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times at Johns Hopkins can vary significantly. Due to the hospital's high volume, it is critical to check the most recent data before visiting the emergency department.

**Specialty Centers and Respiratory Care:**

Johns Hopkins has a renowned pulmonary and critical care medicine division, offering advanced asthma care. They have access to cutting-edge treatments and research, making them a leader in asthma management.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Johns Hopkins offers extensive telehealth services, including options for asthma patients. They provide remote consultations, medication management, and patient education.

**University of Maryland Medical Center (Baltimore, MD):**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), also located in Baltimore (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Frederick), is another leading medical center with a strong reputation.

**CMS Star Rating:**

UMMC currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS, indicating a high level of quality care.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times at UMMC can fluctuate. Review current data before making a decision.

**Specialty Centers and Respiratory Care:**

UMMC has a strong pulmonary and critical care division, providing comprehensive asthma care. They have access to specialized treatments and a dedicated team of respiratory specialists.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

UMMC offers telehealth services, which can be valuable for asthma management. Check their website for specific offerings related to asthma.

**Assessing ER Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a critical factor for asthma patients. The Maryland Hospital Association (MHA) website is a valuable resource for comparing ER wait times across different hospitals in the state. The MHA provides real-time data on wait times, allowing patients to make informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Understanding CMS Star Ratings:**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. However, they should be considered alongside other factors, such as specialty care availability, patient reviews, and personal preferences. The ratings are based on a variety of metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Importance of Telehealth in Asthma Management:**

Telehealth offers significant benefits for asthma patients. It allows for convenient access to medical professionals for medication adjustments, symptom monitoring, and education. Telehealth can reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving time and effort.

**Choosing the Right Hospital:**

The best hospital for asthma care depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider factors such as proximity, ER wait times, specialty care availability, telehealth options, and CMS star ratings. Patients with severe or complex asthma may benefit from the specialized care offered at hospitals like Johns Hopkins or UMMC, even if it means traveling further. For routine care and less severe asthma, FHH or Meritus Medical Center might be more convenient.

**Staying Informed:**

Healthcare information changes frequently. Always consult the most up-to-date information from hospital websites, the Maryland Hospital Association, and your healthcare provider. Regular communication with your doctor is crucial for effective asthma management.