15442, Grindstone, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 15442, Grindstone, Pennsylvania is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near 15442 (Connellsville, PA)

Finding the right medical care, especially for a chronic condition like asthma, can be daunting. This review focuses on hospitals near the 15442 ZIP code, providing a fact-rich overview to help patients and their families make informed decisions. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, and the availability of telehealth services.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

The immediate vicinity of Connellsville, PA (15442) offers a limited selection of hospitals. Residents primarily rely on facilities within a reasonable driving distance. This necessitates considering hospitals in nearby cities like Uniontown and Greensburg, extending the search radius for optimal care.

**Excela Health Frick Hospital (Mount Pleasant, PA - ~20 miles)**

Excela Health Frick Hospital, located approximately 20 miles from Connellsville, is a significant player. This hospital is a part of the Excela Health system, offering a range of services. While not a flagship facility with national recognition, it provides essential healthcare within a manageable travel distance. Its CMS star rating is a crucial factor for assessment. Unfortunately, publicly available data on Frick Hospital’s CMS star rating is not readily accessible at the time of this review.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

ER wait times are a critical concern for asthma patients, particularly during exacerbations. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, tracking data from sources like Medicare.gov or hospital websites is vital. Publicly available data on Frick Hospital’s ER wait times is not readily accessible at the time of this review. Patients should always call ahead or check online resources before heading to the ER.

**UPMC (Various Locations - ~30-50 miles)**

The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) system offers a wider array of options, though located further away, generally 30-50 miles from Connellsville. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital, in Pittsburgh, are flagship facilities. They provide a broader spectrum of specialized care, including dedicated respiratory centers.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA)**

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside is a highly-regarded hospital within the UPMC system. It boasts a strong reputation for complex medical care. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall quality. As of the latest available data, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside has a 4-star CMS rating. This rating reflects a good level of quality and patient satisfaction.

**UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital (Pittsburgh, PA)**

While primarily focused on women's health, UPMC Magee-Womens Hospital is part of the larger UPMC system and offers access to the system’s resources. Magee-Womens Hospital does not have a CMS star rating as it is a specialty hospital.

**UPMC Specialized Asthma Care**

UPMC, due to its size and resources, likely offers specialized asthma care within its network. This can include dedicated pulmonology departments, asthma education programs, and access to clinical trials. Patients seeking specialized care should inquire directly with UPMC facilities to determine the availability of these services.

**UPMC ER Wait Times**

UPMC's ER wait times vary depending on the specific hospital and the time of day. Checking the UPMC website or using online tools like Google Search to find estimated wait times is recommended. However, be aware that these are estimates and can change.

**Telehealth and Asthma Management**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in asthma management. It offers convenient access to consultations, medication refills, and monitoring. UPMC, being a large healthcare system, likely offers telehealth services for asthma patients. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments with pulmonologists or asthma specialists. This is a valuable tool for managing chronic conditions and reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**AHN (Allegheny Health Network) - (Various Locations - ~40-60 miles)**

The Allegheny Health Network (AHN) is another major healthcare provider in the region. AHN facilities are located in Pittsburgh and surrounding areas.

**AHN Hospitals**

AHN operates several hospitals in the Pittsburgh area, including Allegheny General Hospital. These hospitals provide a comprehensive range of medical services. AHN hospitals' CMS star ratings and ER wait times are key factors to consider. Publicly available data on AHN hospitals' CMS star ratings and ER wait times is not readily accessible at the time of this review.

**AHN Specialty Centers**

AHN may offer specialized asthma care through its pulmonology departments. Patients should research specific AHN hospitals to determine the availability of specialized asthma centers, education programs, or access to clinical trials.

**AHN Telehealth**

AHN likely offers telehealth services for asthma management. Patients should check the AHN website or contact their primary care physician to inquire about virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Additional Considerations**

Beyond hospital-specific factors, several other elements contribute to effective asthma care:

* **Pulmonologist Availability:** Access to a qualified pulmonologist is crucial. Patients should research the pulmonologists affiliated with each hospital and consider their experience and expertise.
* **Asthma Education Programs:** Look for hospitals that offer asthma education programs to help patients understand their condition, manage triggers, and use medications effectively.
* **Pharmacy Access:** Easy access to a pharmacy to fill prescriptions is essential. Consider the proximity of pharmacies to the hospital and the availability of 24-hour pharmacies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its physicians accept your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to get insights into the experiences of other asthma patients.

**Navigating the System**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration. Researching CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of specialized services is essential. Patients should also consider the proximity of the hospital, the availability of pulmonologists, and the accessibility of telehealth options.

**Disclaimer:** This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Patients should consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs. Hospital ratings and wait times can change, so it is essential to verify the latest information directly from the hospitals and relevant sources.