03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 03869, Rollinsford, New Hampshire is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score Review: Top Hospitals Near Portsmouth, NH (ZIP Code 03869)**

Navigating asthma care requires informed choices. This review assesses hospitals near Portsmouth, NH (03869), focusing on factors crucial for asthma sufferers: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. We’ll examine flagship hospitals, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review employs an “Asthma Score” framework, evaluating hospitals based on criteria relevant to asthma management. These include:

* **Clinical Excellence:** Measured by CMS star ratings, patient outcomes, and adherence to asthma treatment guidelines.
* **Accessibility:** Assessed through ER wait times, geographic proximity, and telehealth availability.
* **Specialized Services:** Evaluated by the presence of pulmonology departments, asthma clinics, and pediatric asthma programs.
* **Patient Experience:** Considered through patient satisfaction scores and reviews.

**Flagship Hospital Spotlight: Wentworth-Douglass Hospital**

Wentworth-Douglass Hospital, located in Dover, NH (approximately 15 minutes from Portsmouth), is a key healthcare provider for the region. It is a 200+ bed, not-for-profit hospital.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Wentworth-Douglass Hospital currently holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including measures related to patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Room:** The emergency department at Wentworth-Douglass is a critical access point for asthma patients. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to note that the hospital has invested in strategies to improve efficiency and patient flow. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Wentworth-Douglass boasts a robust pulmonary department, offering comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services for respiratory conditions, including asthma. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized equipment.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** Wentworth-Douglass Hospital has a dedicated respiratory care department, which includes asthma education and management programs. These programs provide patients with the knowledge and tools to manage their condition effectively.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Wentworth-Douglass has expanded its telehealth offerings. This is particularly beneficial for asthma patients, providing remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up care.

**Other Important Considerations**

While Wentworth-Douglass is a primary choice, other hospitals in the region warrant consideration.

**Exeter Hospital**

Located in Exeter, NH (roughly 20 minutes from Portsmouth), Exeter Hospital is another significant healthcare provider.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Exeter Hospital also holds a 4-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room:** Exeter Hospital's ER is another option for asthma patients. Wait times can vary, so checking current conditions online or by phone is recommended.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Exeter Hospital has a pulmonary department offering diagnostic and therapeutic services for respiratory conditions.
* **Telehealth:** Exeter Hospital has telehealth services.

**Specialty Centers and Pediatric Asthma Care**

For specialized asthma care, particularly for children, proximity to tertiary care centers may be beneficial.

* **Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):** While further afield (approximately 2 hours from Portsmouth), Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center is a nationally recognized academic medical center. It offers advanced pulmonary services, including specialized asthma clinics and research programs. It is not a direct choice for immediate care, but a resource for complex cases.
* **Boston Children's Hospital (Boston, MA):** For pediatric asthma, Boston Children's Hospital (approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from Portsmouth) is a leading institution. It has a dedicated asthma program and access to cutting-edge treatments.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration for asthma patients. Prolonged wait times can exacerbate symptoms and potentially lead to complications.

* **Real-Time Data:** Patients should utilize online resources (e.g., hospital websites, third-party apps) to check current ER wait times before heading to the emergency room.
* **Urgent Care Centers:** For less severe asthma exacerbations, urgent care centers may provide a faster alternative. However, ensure the center has the resources to manage asthma effectively.

**Telehealth: The Future of Asthma Care**

Telehealth is revolutionizing asthma management, offering convenience and improved access to care.

* **Benefits:** Telehealth allows for remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments. It can be particularly helpful for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas.
* **Hospital Adoption:** Both Wentworth-Douglass and Exeter Hospitals have expanded their telehealth capabilities, offering virtual visits with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Check with your insurance provider to determine telehealth coverage for asthma-related services.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a critical component of asthma care.

* **Online Reviews:** Review websites (e.g., Healthgrades, Vitals) provide insights into patient experiences. However, remember that reviews are subjective and may not reflect the full picture.
* **Hospital Websites:** Hospital websites often feature patient testimonials and satisfaction scores.

**Medication Access and Pharmacies**

Ensuring timely access to asthma medications is vital.

* **Local Pharmacies:** Several pharmacies are located near Portsmouth, offering prescription refills and over-the-counter asthma medications.
* **Hospital Pharmacies:** Both Wentworth-Douglass and Exeter Hospitals have pharmacies, providing convenient access to medications.

**Asthma Action Plans: A Must-Have**

All asthma patients should have a personalized asthma action plan developed in consultation with their physician. This plan outlines steps to take during asthma exacerbations, including medication adjustments and when to seek emergency care.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration of various factors. Wentworth-Douglass Hospital and Exeter Hospital are the primary choices for those living near Portsmouth, NH (03869), offering comprehensive pulmonary services and telehealth options. Consider ER wait times, specialty centers for complex cases, and the importance of having an asthma action plan. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and pulmonologist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.