43840, Stone Creek, Ohio Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 43840, Stone Creek, Ohio is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 43840

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, requires careful consideration. This review focuses on hospitals and healthcare resources near ZIP code 43840, providing a fact-rich assessment to help patients make informed decisions. The information presented is current as of October 26, 2023, and relies on publicly available data from sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and independent healthcare rating agencies.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Access**

ZIP code 43840 primarily encompasses the town of Newcomerstown, Ohio, and surrounding rural areas. Healthcare access in this region may be geographically limited compared to urban centers. Therefore, the focus will be on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering factors like specialized asthma care, emergency services, and overall quality ratings.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The CMS Star Rating system offers a general overview of hospital quality, based on various metrics. While no hospital directly within 43840 currently holds a CMS star rating, several regional hospitals are relevant.

**Aultman Hospital (Canton, OH):** Located approximately 40 miles north of Newcomerstown, Aultman Hospital is a major regional healthcare provider. It typically has a CMS star rating, though this can fluctuate annually. Patients should verify the current rating on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Aultman offers a comprehensive respiratory care department, including specialized asthma management programs. They also have a dedicated pulmonary clinic that can provide specialized care.

**Cleveland Clinic (Cleveland, OH):** Roughly 90 miles northeast, the Cleveland Clinic is a nationally recognized healthcare system. While the main campus is further away, its reputation for excellence in respiratory care is significant. The Cleveland Clinic is consistently ranked among the top hospitals in the nation for pulmonology and respiratory services. They possess a dedicated asthma center with a multidisciplinary team of specialists.

**OhioHealth Grant Medical Center (Columbus, OH):** Located approximately 80 miles southwest, OhioHealth Grant Medical Center is another major hospital system. It typically has a CMS star rating, which should be verified on the CMS website. Grant Medical Center offers a wide range of services, including respiratory therapy and pulmonary care.

**ER Wait Times: A Crucial Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration for asthma patients, especially during exacerbations. Data on ER wait times can be found on hospital websites and through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. However, these times can vary significantly depending on the day, time, and patient volume.

**Aultman Hospital:** Aultman Hospital's ER wait times are generally in line with the regional average. Patients should check the hospital's website or call the ER directly for the most up-to-date information.

**Cleveland Clinic:** Due to the high volume of patients, ER wait times at the main Cleveland Clinic campus can sometimes be longer. However, the clinic has implemented strategies to streamline patient flow. It is advisable to check their website for current wait times.

**OhioHealth Grant Medical Center:** Grant Medical Center's ER wait times can also fluctuate. Checking their website or contacting the ER directly is recommended for real-time information.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Care**

Beyond general respiratory care, specialized asthma centers and programs can provide more tailored treatment.

**Aultman Hospital:** Aultman's pulmonary clinic offers a range of services, including pulmonary function testing, asthma education, and medication management. They often have respiratory therapists specializing in asthma care.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic's Asthma Center is a leading resource for complex asthma cases. They offer comprehensive evaluations, advanced treatments, and access to clinical trials. They have a team of pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists.

**OhioHealth Grant Medical Center:** Grant Medical Center has a pulmonary department that provides asthma management and education. They offer pulmonary rehabilitation programs that can benefit patients with chronic respiratory conditions.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like asthma. It can provide convenient access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Aultman Hospital:** Aultman Hospital has expanded its telehealth capabilities, offering virtual appointments for certain specialties. Patients should inquire about telehealth options with their pulmonologist or primary care physician.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic has a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations for respiratory conditions. They offer remote monitoring programs to track asthma symptoms and medication adherence.

**OhioHealth Grant Medical Center:** Grant Medical Center also offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments and remote patient monitoring.

**Important Considerations: Pediatric Asthma Care**

For families with children, pediatric asthma care is essential.

**Aultman Hospital:** Aultman has a pediatric department that can provide asthma care for children.

**Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic Children's Hospital is renowned for its pediatric pulmonology services. They have specialized asthma programs for children and adolescents.

**OhioHealth Grant Medical Center:** Grant Medical Center also provides pediatric services, including asthma management.

**Navigating Insurance and Costs**

Healthcare costs and insurance coverage vary. Patients should contact their insurance providers to understand their specific benefits and coverage for asthma-related services. Hospitals typically provide financial assistance programs for eligible patients.

**Additional Resources: Local Physicians and Clinics**

Beyond the major hospitals, local physicians and clinics play a crucial role in asthma management. Patients should establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can provide ongoing care and referrals to specialists.

**Community Healthcare Providers:** Researching local family medicine practices and internal medicine clinics in the Newcomerstown area is vital. These providers can often offer initial asthma assessments, medication management, and referrals to specialists when needed.

**Emergency Preparedness and Asthma Action Plans**

Regardless of the chosen healthcare provider, all asthma patients should have a personalized asthma action plan. This plan outlines the steps to take when symptoms worsen and provides guidance on medication adjustments and when to seek emergency care.

**Medication Access and Pharmacies**

Ensuring access to asthma medications is critical. Patients should identify local pharmacies that carry their prescribed medications and understand their insurance coverage for those medications.

**The Role of Patient Education and Support**

Patient education is a cornerstone of effective asthma management. Hospitals and healthcare providers often offer educational programs to help patients understand their condition, learn proper inhaler techniques, and identify triggers. Support groups can provide valuable peer support and share coping strategies.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Managing asthma requires a proactive approach and access to quality healthcare. While the immediate vicinity of ZIP code 43840 may have limited options, the regional hospitals, particularly Aultman Hospital, Cleveland Clinic, and OhioHealth Grant Medical Center, offer comprehensive care. Patients should research these hospitals, consider their individual needs, and prioritize factors like ER wait times, specialized asthma programs, and telehealth capabilities. By combining this information with local resources, patient education, and a well-defined asthma action plan, individuals can effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life. This review provides a starting point for that process, but individual circumstances and preferences should always guide healthcare decisions.