11719, Brookhaven, New York Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 11719, Brookhaven, New York is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Commack, NY (ZIP Code 11719)

Finding the best asthma care is crucial, and for residents of Commack, NY (ZIP code 11719), access to quality healthcare is a priority. This review analyzes the hospitals closest to Commack, focusing on key factors impacting asthma management: overall hospital quality, emergency room performance, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth capabilities. We'll examine the strengths and weaknesses of each institution, providing a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment to help you make informed decisions about your care.

**Understanding the "Asthma Score" Framework**

Our "Asthma Score" considers several factors. Firstly, we evaluate the overall quality of the hospital, using the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings as a benchmark. Higher star ratings (1-5 stars) indicate better performance across various quality metrics. Secondly, we analyze emergency room (ER) wait times, a critical factor for asthma patients experiencing acute attacks. Shorter wait times can significantly impact patient outcomes. Thirdly, we look for specialized asthma centers or programs, which often offer comprehensive care, including advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment plans, and patient education. Finally, we assess the availability and accessibility of telehealth services, which can be particularly beneficial for ongoing asthma management and follow-up appointments.

**Hospital Analysis: Proximity and Performance**

**1. St. Catherine of Siena Hospital (Smithtown, NY)**

St. Catherine of Siena Hospital, located in Smithtown, is a key healthcare provider for residents of Commack. Its CMS star rating is a respectable **3 stars**. While this indicates average performance, it's important to delve deeper.

* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times are a crucial consideration for asthma patients. Data on St. Catherine's ER wait times can fluctuate, so checking recent data sources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms (e.g., Healthgrades) is essential. Shorter wait times are preferable, as they allow for quicker intervention during asthma exacerbations.
* **Asthma-Specific Services:** Researching whether St. Catherine has a dedicated asthma center or program is vital. These programs often involve pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and specialized nurses who can provide comprehensive asthma management. Inquire about patient education programs, which empower patients to manage their condition effectively.
* **Telehealth:** The availability of telehealth services, such as virtual appointments with pulmonologists or respiratory therapists, can be a significant advantage for ongoing asthma management. Check St. Catherine's website for information on telehealth offerings, including the types of services available and how to schedule appointments.

**2. Huntington Hospital (Huntington, NY)**

Huntington Hospital, a Northwell Health facility, is another significant option. It boasts a **4-star CMS rating**, suggesting a higher level of overall quality compared to St. Catherine.

* **Emergency Room:** Huntington Hospital’s ER wait times should be reviewed. Shorter wait times are crucial for asthma patients experiencing breathing difficulties.
* **Asthma-Specific Services:** Investigate whether Huntington Hospital has a specialized asthma center or program. Look for details on the expertise of the pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.
* **Telehealth:** Northwell Health is known for its robust telehealth offerings. Check Huntington Hospital's website or the Northwell Health portal for information on virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and other telehealth services relevant to asthma management.

**3. Stony Brook University Hospital (Stony Brook, NY)**

Stony Brook University Hospital, a flagship hospital, is a major medical center in the region. It has a **4-star CMS rating**.

* **Emergency Room:** Being a major trauma center, Stony Brook's ER can experience high patient volumes. Therefore, it's essential to check current ER wait times.
* **Asthma-Specific Services:** As a university hospital, Stony Brook often has specialized centers and programs. Investigate whether it has a dedicated asthma center or program, and explore the expertise of its pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.
* **Telehealth:** Stony Brook likely offers telehealth services. Check their website for information on virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and other telehealth options.

**4. John T. Mather Memorial Hospital (Port Jefferson, NY)**

John T. Mather Memorial Hospital in Port Jefferson is another option. It has a **3-star CMS rating**.

* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times should be checked.
* **Asthma-Specific Services:** Investigate whether Mather Hospital has a dedicated asthma center or program.
* **Telehealth:** Check Mather Hospital's website for information on telehealth offerings.

**5. Other Considerations: Pediatric Asthma and Specialized Care**

For families with children, the availability of pediatric pulmonologists and specialized pediatric asthma care is crucial. Research the hospitals mentioned above to determine their pediatric asthma capabilities. Consider whether any hospitals offer specialized programs for severe asthma or other complex asthma-related conditions.

**Telehealth: The Future of Asthma Management**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare, and it holds significant promise for asthma management. Telehealth services can include:

* **Virtual appointments:** Consultations with pulmonologists or respiratory therapists via video conferencing.
* **Remote monitoring:** Using wearable devices or home monitoring equipment to track lung function and other vital signs.
* **Medication management:** Reviewing medication regimens and providing guidance on proper inhaler technique.
* **Patient education:** Providing online resources and educational materials to help patients manage their asthma.

When evaluating hospitals, inquire about their telehealth capabilities and how they integrate these services into their asthma care programs.

**Making Your Asthma Score Decision**

Choosing the best hospital for asthma care involves a multi-faceted approach. Consider the following:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** Use these as a starting point for assessing overall hospital quality.
* **ER Wait Times:** Prioritize hospitals with shorter wait times, especially during asthma exacerbations.
* **Specialized Asthma Services:** Look for dedicated asthma centers or programs that offer comprehensive care.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Assess the availability and accessibility of telehealth services for ongoing asthma management.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Factor in the hospital's location and ease of access from your home in Commack.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider your individual needs and preferences, such as the availability of specific specialists or the hospital's overall reputation.

**Disclaimer:** *This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment of asthma. Hospital data, including ER wait times and service offerings, can change. Verify information with the hospitals directly before making any healthcare decisions.*