44427, Kensington, Ohio Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 44427, Kensington, Ohio is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Cortland, OH (44427)

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a challenge, especially when considering factors like proximity, quality of care, and accessibility. This review focuses on hospitals near Cortland, Ohio (ZIP code 44427), providing a fact-rich overview to help patients and their families make informed decisions about their asthma care. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a snapshot of the landscape for asthma treatment in the region.

**Proximity and Flagship Hospitals: The Big Players**

The immediate vicinity of Cortland, OH, is primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. The larger healthcare networks, such as University Hospitals (UH) and Mercy Health, dominate the regional healthcare landscape. These systems often offer a wider range of services and specialists, making them key considerations for asthma patients.

**University Hospitals (UH) System:**

UH is a major player in the Northeast Ohio healthcare market. While no single hospital within the UH system is *directly* in Cortland, several facilities are within a 30-45 minute drive, making them accessible options. UH's flagship hospital, **University Hospitals Cleveland Medical Center**, is a Level I trauma center and a major referral hospital. However, it is located approximately an hour and fifteen minutes away. The CMS star rating for Cleveland Medical Center fluctuates, so checking the most recent data on the CMS website is crucial.

**Mercy Health System:**

Mercy Health is another significant healthcare provider in the region. Mercy Health has a strong presence in the Youngstown area, with **St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital** being a primary facility. While not directly in Cortland, St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is a closer option than UH Cleveland Medical Center, typically accessible within a 20-30 minute drive. The CMS star rating for St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital is also subject to change, so verify the latest information on the CMS website.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: Time is of the Essence**

For asthma patients experiencing an exacerbation, quick access to emergency care is critical. ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often found on hospital websites or through third-party resources like Healthgrades. These resources can provide a general idea of average wait times, but it’s essential to remember that these are just averages and individual experiences may differ. Checking these resources and contacting the hospital directly for the most current data is recommended.

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

The presence of specialized asthma centers or programs is a significant factor in assessing the quality of care. These centers often have dedicated pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists with expertise in asthma management. They may also offer specialized testing, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and allergy testing, to help diagnose and manage asthma effectively.

Within the region, both UH and Mercy Health systems typically have pulmonary departments that treat asthma. Investigating the specific services offered by these departments, including the availability of specialized asthma clinics or programs, is crucial. Contacting the hospitals directly and inquiring about their asthma care services is the best way to get this information.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth services can provide patients with convenient access to consultations, medication refills, and education. Many hospitals and healthcare systems now offer telehealth options, including virtual visits with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.

Checking the websites of UH and Mercy Health for telehealth services is recommended. Inquire about the availability of virtual asthma consultations, medication management support, and remote monitoring programs. These programs can allow patients to track their symptoms and receive guidance from their healthcare providers remotely.

**Specific Hospital Profiles (Based on Proximity and General Availability):**

* **St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital (Mercy Health):** This hospital, located approximately 20-30 minutes from Cortland, is a major regional facility. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact them directly to inquire about their pulmonary services, including asthma-specific care and telehealth options. Investigate the availability of specialized asthma clinics, respiratory therapy services, and telehealth consultations.
* **University Hospitals Geauga Medical Center (Chardon, OH):** This hospital is approximately a 45-minute drive from Cortland. Check their website for information about their pulmonology department, asthma care services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Important Considerations for Asthma Patients:**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other asthma patients. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful, but remember to consider the source and potential biases.
* **Physician Credentials:** Confirm that the pulmonologists and allergists are board-certified and have experience in treating asthma.
* **Asthma Action Plan:** Ensure that the hospital and your healthcare provider work with you to develop a personalized asthma action plan. This plan should outline your medications, triggers, and steps to take in case of an asthma exacerbation.
* **Communication:** Establish clear communication channels with your healthcare providers, including the ability to contact them for questions or concerns.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Asthma Care Landscape**

Choosing the right hospital and healthcare team is crucial for managing asthma effectively. This review provides a starting point for asthma patients near Cortland, OH (44427) to begin their research. By considering factors like proximity, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, patients can make informed decisions about their care. Remember to conduct thorough research, contact hospitals directly, and prioritize your individual needs and preferences when selecting a healthcare provider. Ongoing communication with your healthcare team and proactive asthma management are key to living a full and active life with asthma.