14167, Varysburg, New York Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 14167, Varysburg, New York is 27 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Niagara Falls, NY (14167)

The Niagara Falls, NY, area, specifically ZIP code 14167, presents a unique healthcare landscape for individuals managing asthma. Proximity to both urban centers and rural areas influences access to specialized care, emergency services, and innovative treatment options. This review analyzes the available resources, focusing on hospital quality, emergency room performance, and the integration of telehealth, providing a comprehensive "Asthma Score" perspective.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Cornerstone of Care**

A critical starting point for evaluating asthma care is the quality of the region's flagship hospitals. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating system offers a readily accessible, albeit simplified, measure of overall hospital performance. Hospitals in and around the 14167 ZIP code are evaluated on a five-star scale, encompassing patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center:** Located directly within Niagara Falls, Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center is a primary care provider for the area. As of the latest CMS data, its star rating and specific performance metrics can fluctuate, so a direct check of the CMS website is necessary for the most current information. This hospital is a vital resource for local residents, offering a range of services including an emergency department and various specialty clinics.

**Kaleida Health System (Buffalo):** While not directly within the 14167 ZIP code, the Kaleida Health System, located in Buffalo, offers a network of hospitals that are within a reasonable driving distance for residents. This system includes several hospitals that often receive higher CMS star ratings, reflecting a commitment to quality care. These hospitals offer a broader range of specialized services and may be preferred for complex asthma cases. Specific CMS ratings for each Kaleida Health facility should be consulted on the CMS website.

**Emergency Room Performance: A Critical Metric for Asthma Patients**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for asthma patients, who may require immediate medical attention during an exacerbation. Shorter wait times can significantly improve patient outcomes.

**Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center's Emergency Department:** The emergency department at Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center is a vital resource for residents. Wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Patients should expect to wait, but the hospital is committed to providing timely care for all patients. Real-time wait time information may be available on the hospital's website or through online platforms.

**Kaleida Health Emergency Departments:** The emergency departments within the Kaleida Health System, located in Buffalo, also provide critical care. Their wait times can be influenced by the volume of patients and the severity of their conditions. Patients should check the hospital websites or online platforms for up-to-date wait time information.

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

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized asthma care is essential. This includes pulmonology clinics, allergy specialists, and respiratory therapy departments.

**Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center:** The hospital offers access to pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. These specialists are essential for diagnosing, managing, and treating asthma. They can provide comprehensive care, including medication management, breathing exercises, and education on asthma triggers.

**Kaleida Health Specialty Centers:** The Kaleida Health System offers a wider range of specialty centers, including pulmonary and allergy clinics. These centers provide advanced diagnostic testing, specialized treatments, and access to clinical trials. They are often equipped to handle complex asthma cases and offer a multidisciplinary approach to care.

**Telehealth Integration: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. It offers patients convenient access to healthcare providers, reduces the need for in-person visits, and improves medication adherence.

**Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center and Telehealth:** The hospital is likely to offer some telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. Telehealth can be used for medication management, follow-up appointments, and patient education. The hospital's website or patient portal should be consulted for specific telehealth offerings.

**Kaleida Health and Telehealth:** The Kaleida Health System has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual appointments, remote monitoring, and online patient portals. This system allows patients to connect with specialists, manage their medications, and access educational resources from the comfort of their homes.

**Pediatric Asthma Care:**

For children with asthma, specialized pediatric care is crucial. This includes pediatric pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists.

**Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center:** The hospital has pediatric services. The hospital has specialists for treating children with asthma.

**Kaleida Health Pediatric Services:** The Kaleida Health System offers a range of pediatric services, including pediatric pulmonology and allergy clinics. These clinics provide specialized care for children with asthma, including diagnosis, treatment, and education.

**Additional Considerations: Support Groups and Community Resources**

Beyond medical care, support groups and community resources can play a vital role in managing asthma. These resources provide patients with emotional support, education, and access to community-based programs.

**Local Support Groups:** Check local community centers, libraries, and online platforms for asthma support groups in the Niagara Falls area. These groups offer a safe space for patients to share their experiences, learn from others, and receive support.

**Asthma Education Programs:** The American Lung Association and other organizations offer asthma education programs. These programs provide patients with information on asthma triggers, medication management, and breathing techniques.

**Air Quality and Environmental Factors:**

The Niagara Falls area's air quality can influence asthma symptoms. Monitoring air quality reports and taking steps to reduce exposure to pollutants is important.

**Local Air Quality Monitoring:** The New York State Department of Environmental Conservation (DEC) monitors air quality in the Niagara Falls area. Patients should check the DEC website for air quality reports and alerts.

**Environmental Control Measures:** Patients should take steps to control environmental triggers, such as dust mites, pollen, and mold. This includes using air purifiers, cleaning regularly, and avoiding exposure to allergens.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Asthma Score in 14167**

The 14167 ZIP code area offers a range of healthcare resources for asthma patients. Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center provides essential local care, while the Kaleida Health System in Buffalo offers more specialized services. Emergency room wait times, telehealth integration, and access to specialty centers should be considered when choosing a healthcare provider. Patients should proactively seek out the most current CMS star ratings, research wait times, and explore telehealth options. By understanding the available resources and proactively managing their care, asthma patients in the Niagara Falls area can effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life. The availability of pediatric services, support groups, and air quality monitoring further enhances the comprehensive care available in this region.