45133, Hillsboro, Ohio Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 45133, Hillsboro, Ohio is 24 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare for Asthma in the Milford, Ohio Area (ZIP Code 45133)

Living with asthma requires proactive healthcare, and choosing the right hospital can significantly impact the quality of life for patients. This review focuses on the hospitals and healthcare resources available near Milford, Ohio (ZIP code 45133), providing a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities in managing asthma. We’ll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth options to help patients make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Major Players:**

The immediate vicinity of Milford, Ohio, is primarily served by hospitals in the Greater Cincinnati area. While no hospital is directly within the 45133 ZIP code, several major medical centers are easily accessible, offering a range of services for asthma management. These hospitals are the primary focus of this review.

**University of Cincinnati Medical Center (Cincinnati, OH):**

Located approximately 20 miles west of Milford, the University of Cincinnati Medical Center (UCMC) is a significant healthcare provider. UCMC is a Level I trauma center and a teaching hospital, often at the forefront of medical advancements. It boasts a strong reputation in respiratory care.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UCMC currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at UCMC can fluctuate, but data from recent months shows an average wait time that is generally in line with, or slightly above, the national average for similar hospitals. Real-time wait times are often available on the hospital's website or through third-party apps.
* **Specialty Centers:** UCMC houses a robust Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine division, which is crucial for asthma management. This division offers specialized clinics and services for various respiratory conditions, including severe asthma. They often participate in clinical trials and research, potentially providing access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Telehealth Stats:** UCMC has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations for certain specialties. While specific statistics on asthma-related telehealth visits are not always publicly available, patients can inquire about virtual follow-up appointments and consultations with their pulmonologists.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** UCMC's Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine division likely offers asthma education programs, support groups, and personalized care plans to help patients manage their condition effectively. Information on these programs can be found on their website or by contacting the department directly.

**Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital (Batavia, OH):**

Located approximately 10 miles east of Milford, Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital provides a more local option. This hospital offers a range of services, including emergency care and general medical services.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at Clermont Hospital tend to be shorter than those at larger hospitals like UCMC, offering a potentially faster option for urgent asthma-related issues.
* **Specialty Centers:** Clermont Hospital has a pulmonary medicine department, which is staffed by pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.
* **Telehealth Stats:** Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with specialists.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** Clermont Hospital likely provides asthma education and support services.

**TriHealth – Good Samaritan Hospital (Cincinnati, OH):**

Approximately 25 miles west of Milford, Good Samaritan Hospital is a major player in the Cincinnati healthcare landscape. It is known for its comprehensive services and strong reputation.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Good Samaritan Hospital has a 4-star CMS rating.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary, but are generally in line with other major hospitals in the area.
* **Specialty Centers:** Good Samaritan Hospital has a well-established pulmonary medicine department with a range of specialists.
* **Telehealth Stats:** TriHealth, the parent organization of Good Samaritan Hospital, has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations for various specialties.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** Good Samaritan Hospital likely provides asthma education programs, support groups, and comprehensive asthma care.

**Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (Cincinnati, OH):**

While not directly serving adults, Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center, located approximately 20 miles west of Milford, is a world-renowned pediatric hospital. Children with asthma often require specialized care, and this hospital is a leading resource.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center is not rated by CMS, as it is a pediatric-focused facility. However, it consistently ranks among the top children's hospitals in the nation.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** Cincinnati Children's has a dedicated Division of Pulmonary Medicine, offering comprehensive asthma care, including specialized clinics for severe asthma and other respiratory conditions.
* **Telehealth Stats:** Cincinnati Children's has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits and remote monitoring for various pediatric conditions, including asthma.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** Cincinnati Children's offers extensive asthma education programs, support groups, and specialized care plans tailored to children.

**Other Considerations:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors are crucial when assessing asthma care options:

* **Physician Availability:** The availability of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists is critical. Patients should research the credentials and experience of physicians in their chosen hospital or clinic.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital and physicians accept your insurance plan is essential.
* **Medication Availability:** Ensure that the hospital's pharmacy carries the necessary asthma medications, including both rescue inhalers and long-term control medications.
* **Respiratory Therapy Services:** Access to skilled respiratory therapists is crucial for managing asthma exacerbations and providing ongoing support.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Online patient reviews and ratings can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including communication with physicians, wait times, and overall satisfaction. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can be helpful resources.

**Telehealth's Role:**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in asthma management. Virtual consultations can provide convenient access to pulmonologists and other healthcare professionals, especially for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. Telehealth can also facilitate remote monitoring of asthma symptoms and provide educational resources. Patients should inquire about telehealth options at their chosen hospital or clinic.

**Emergency Preparedness:**

For individuals with asthma, having a clear emergency plan is vital. This plan should include:

* **A written asthma action plan:** Developed in consultation with your physician, this plan outlines steps to take when symptoms worsen.
* **Emergency contact information:** Including the phone numbers of your physician, emergency services, and trusted family members or friends.
* **Knowing the location of the nearest emergency room:** And understanding the fastest route to get there.
* **Carrying a rescue inhaler:** And knowing how to use it.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near Milford, Ohio (45133) involves careful consideration of factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. The University of Cincinnati Medical Center, Mercy Health – Clermont Hospital, TriHealth – Good Samaritan Hospital, and Cincinnati Children's Hospital Medical Center (for pediatric patients) offer a range of services. Patients should research the specific programs and services offered by each hospital, evaluate physician availability, and consider their individual needs and preferences. By taking a proactive approach to healthcare, individuals with asthma can effectively manage their condition and improve their quality of life.