15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 15938, Lilly, Pennsylvania is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Johnstown, PA (ZIP Code 15938)

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. This review analyzes hospitals near Johnstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 15938), focusing on factors relevant to asthma patients, including emergency room wait times, specialist availability, and telehealth options. We'll consider flagship institutions, CMS star ratings, and the presence of specialized respiratory centers to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment.

**Understanding the Criteria:**

Our "Asthma Score" considers several key elements. We prioritize hospitals with:

* **Low ER Wait Times:** Asthma attacks can escalate rapidly. Quick access to care is paramount.
* **Pulmonary Specialists:** Board-certified pulmonologists are essential for diagnosis, treatment, and long-term management.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** Dedicated asthma clinics or programs often offer specialized care and education.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Remote consultations and monitoring can improve access to care, especially for those in rural areas.
* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, offer a general indicator of hospital quality.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** While not a clinical factor, travel time and ease of access are important considerations for patients.

**The Landscape of Care: A Regional Overview**

Johnstown, Pennsylvania, is a city with a population of around 20,000, located in Cambria County. The region's healthcare landscape is primarily shaped by a few key hospitals. Due to the size of the city, patients may need to travel to larger regional centers for more specialized care.

**Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center: A Local Anchor**

Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center, located in Johnstown (1086 Franklin Street), is a major healthcare provider for the region. It is a 570-bed tertiary care center. Conemaugh Memorial Hospital is a teaching hospital, affiliated with the Temple University School of Medicine.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center has a 3-star rating from CMS as of October 2024. This rating reflects a mixed performance across various quality measures.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times at Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center are a critical factor. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website indicates that average ER wait times can fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times through the hospital's website or other sources before arriving.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center has a pulmonary department, which provides diagnosis and treatment for various respiratory conditions, including asthma. The hospital has a team of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists.
* **Specialized Programs:** Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center offers respiratory therapy services and pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which can be beneficial for asthma patients.
* **Telehealth:** Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center offers telehealth services. This can be particularly useful for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**UPMC Altoona: Expanding the Reach**

UPMC Altoona, located approximately 45 miles east of Johnstown in Altoona, PA, is another important option for patients in the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Altoona has a 3-star rating from CMS as of October 2024.
* **Emergency Room:** UPMC Altoona's ER wait times should be checked through their website or other online resources.
* **Pulmonary Services:** UPMC Altoona has a pulmonary department with pulmonologists.
* **Specialized Programs:** UPMC Altoona has specialized programs for respiratory care.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC Altoona offers telehealth services.

**Other Considerations**

* **Windber Medical Center:** Located in Windber, PA, this hospital is closer to Johnstown than UPMC Altoona. It may be a good option for patients seeking a smaller hospital setting.

**Beyond the Hospitals: The Role of Primary Care**

While hospital-based care is critical during acute asthma attacks, primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in long-term asthma management. PCPs can provide:

* **Regular Check-ups:** Monitoring lung function and adjusting medication as needed.
* **Medication Refills:** Ensuring patients have access to their prescribed medications.
* **Asthma Action Plans:** Developing personalized plans for managing asthma symptoms.
* **Referrals:** Connecting patients with pulmonologists or other specialists when necessary.

**Navigating the Healthcare System: Tips for Asthma Patients**

* **Know Your Triggers:** Identify and avoid asthma triggers, such as allergens, irritants, and exercise.
* **Carry Your Medications:** Always have your rescue inhaler and any other prescribed medications with you.
* **Develop an Asthma Action Plan:** Work with your doctor to create a written plan that outlines how to manage your asthma symptoms.
* **Recognize the Signs of a Flare-Up:** Learn to identify the early signs of an asthma attack and seek medical attention promptly.
* **Communicate with Your Healthcare Providers:** Keep your doctor informed about your asthma symptoms and any changes in your condition.

**Telehealth: A Growing Option**

Telehealth has emerged as a valuable tool for asthma management, particularly in rural areas. It can provide:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Patients can connect with their doctors remotely.
* **Medication Management:** Doctors can review medication regimens and make adjustments as needed.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some telehealth programs allow patients to monitor their lung function at home.
* **Education and Support:** Patients can access educational resources and support groups online.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care involves careful consideration of several factors. For residents of the 15938 ZIP code, Conemaugh Memorial Medical Center is a central option, with UPMC Altoona offering an alternative. Patients should research ER wait times, assess the availability of pulmonary specialists, and consider the hospital's telehealth capabilities. Regular communication with your PCP and proactive management of your asthma are essential for maintaining good respiratory health. This "Asthma Score" review provides a starting point for making informed decisions about your asthma care. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and treatment.