13633, De Peyster, New York Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 13633, De Peyster, New York is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Massena, NY (ZIP Code 13633)

Living with asthma requires consistent, reliable healthcare. This review analyzes the hospitals near Massena, NY (ZIP Code 13633), evaluating their asthma care capabilities based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. This information aims to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment, helping patients make informed decisions about their care.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Massena, NY, presents a limited number of hospital options. Patients often need to consider facilities further afield to access specialized asthma care and advanced resources. The primary focus will be on the closest hospitals, but we'll also consider regional facilities offering potentially superior services.

**Canton-Potsdam Hospital (Canton, NY): A Closer Look**

Canton-Potsdam Hospital (CPH), located approximately 30 miles south of Massena, is a key healthcare provider for the region. CPH is a community hospital, offering a range of services. However, its publicly available data regarding asthma-specific care is limited. CMS star ratings are not available, indicating a lack of sufficient data for comprehensive evaluation.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for asthma patients. Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources should be consulted to obtain the most current wait time information. These times can fluctuate, so it's essential to check regularly. CPH's ER is a vital resource, especially during acute asthma exacerbations.

Specialty centers focused on respiratory care are important. CPH may have pulmonology specialists, but the availability of dedicated asthma clinics or comprehensive respiratory programs needs to be confirmed through direct inquiry. Patients should contact the hospital directly to inquire about their asthma care services.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important. CPH may offer telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments or medication management. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel. Check the hospital's website or contact them directly to inquire about telehealth options.

**Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center (Ogdensburg, NY): Considering the Alternatives**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center, located in Ogdensburg, NY, is another hospital option. It is approximately 30 miles west of Massena. Like CPH, it's a community hospital. Publicly available data on asthma-specific care and CMS star ratings are limited.

ER wait times are a critical factor. Patients should consult recent CMS data and other sources to assess the ER wait times. Claxton-Hepburn's ER is a vital resource during asthma emergencies.

Specialty centers are essential. Patients should contact Claxton-Hepburn directly to inquire about the availability of pulmonology specialists, asthma clinics, and comprehensive respiratory programs.

Telehealth options should be investigated. The hospital's website or direct contact can provide information about telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments or medication management.

**Regional Flagship Hospitals: Expanding the Scope**

While the immediate area offers limited options, considering regional flagship hospitals is important, especially for complex cases or when seeking specialized care. These hospitals often have more advanced resources and specialized programs.

**University Hospital (Syracuse, NY): A Regional Powerhouse**

University Hospital in Syracuse, NY, is a major regional medical center, approximately 150 miles south of Massena. It is part of Upstate Medical University. University Hospital has a good reputation for providing comprehensive care.

University Hospital's CMS star rating should be investigated. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall hospital quality, including patient safety and outcomes. Higher ratings generally indicate better performance.

ER wait times are crucial. Patients should consult recent CMS data and other sources to assess the ER wait times. University Hospital's ER is a vital resource during asthma emergencies.

Specialty centers are a key strength. University Hospital likely has a dedicated pulmonology department and potentially specialized asthma clinics. Patients should research the availability of such programs and the expertise of the pulmonologists.

Telehealth options are increasingly important. University Hospital likely offers telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments or medication management. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel. Check the hospital's website or contact them directly to inquire about telehealth options.

**Strong Memorial Hospital (Rochester, NY): Another Consideration**

Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester, NY, is another major regional medical center, located approximately 180 miles west of Massena. It is part of the University of Rochester Medical Center. Strong Memorial Hospital is renowned for its comprehensive care.

Strong Memorial Hospital's CMS star rating should be investigated. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall hospital quality, including patient safety and outcomes. Higher ratings generally indicate better performance.

ER wait times are crucial. Patients should consult recent CMS data and other sources to assess the ER wait times. Strong Memorial Hospital's ER is a vital resource during asthma emergencies.

Specialty centers are a key strength. Strong Memorial Hospital likely has a dedicated pulmonology department and potentially specialized asthma clinics. Patients should research the availability of such programs and the expertise of the pulmonologists.

Telehealth options are increasingly important. Strong Memorial Hospital likely offers telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments or medication management. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for travel. Check the hospital's website or contact them directly to inquire about telehealth options.

**Factors to Consider: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond the basic metrics, several other factors are crucial when assessing asthma care:

* **Physician Expertise:** Research the pulmonologists and allergists associated with each hospital. Consider their experience, training, and specializations. Look for board certification and any specific expertise in asthma management.
* **Asthma Education Programs:** Does the hospital offer patient education programs to help patients manage their asthma effectively? These programs can cover topics like medication use, trigger avoidance, and asthma action plans.
* **Access to Advanced Therapies:** Does the hospital have access to advanced therapies for severe asthma, such as biologics or other specialized treatments?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital and its specialists accept your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other asthma patients. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful.

**The "Asthma Score" Summary: A Personalized Approach**

Creating a definitive "Asthma Score" for each hospital is challenging due to the limited publicly available data for the immediate area. However, the following summarizes key considerations:

* **Proximity is a key factor:** Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center are the closest options, but comprehensive asthma-specific data is limited.
* **Regional Hospitals Offer More:** University Hospital in Syracuse and Strong Memorial Hospital in Rochester offer more comprehensive services, but require longer travel times.
* **Prioritize Research:** Patients must conduct thorough research, contacting hospitals directly to inquire about specific services, physician expertise, and telehealth options.
* **ER Wait Times are Critical:** Monitor ER wait times at all facilities, especially during asthma exacerbations.
* **Consider Telehealth:** Explore telehealth options to facilitate follow-up appointments and medication management.
* **Personalized Needs:** The "best" hospital depends on individual needs, the severity of asthma, and access to transportation.

**Recommendations:**

Patients in the Massena area should:

1. **Contact Canton-Potsdam Hospital and Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center directly** to inquire about their pulmonology services, asthma clinics, and telehealth options.
2. **Investigate University Hospital and Strong Memorial Hospital** for potentially more comprehensive care, especially if asthma is severe or complex.
3. **Check CMS data and other sources for ER wait times** at all hospitals.
4. **Research physician expertise** and consider factors like board certification and specialization.
5. **Confirm insurance coverage** with each hospital and specialist.
6. **Develop a personalized asthma action plan** with their healthcare provider, regardless of where they receive care.

This review serves as a starting point. The best asthma care is a collaborative effort between the patient and their healthcare team. Regular communication, proactive management, and a willingness to seek the best available resources are crucial for managing asthma effectively.