17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17021, East Waterford, Pennsylvania is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17021)

Living with asthma demands proactive healthcare, and choosing the right hospital is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17021), analyzing their capabilities in asthma management, emergency care, and overall patient experience. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options to provide a comprehensive "Asthma Score" assessment.

**The Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Hershey, PA is dominated by a few major players, each offering varying levels of asthma-related services. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, a flagship hospital, stands out as a primary referral center. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and WellSpan York Hospital also serve the region, providing alternative options. Smaller community hospitals and urgent care centers further contribute to the healthcare ecosystem.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located directly in Hershey, is the most prominent hospital serving the 17021 ZIP code. This teaching hospital boasts a comprehensive range of services, including a dedicated pulmonary and critical care division.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Hershey Medical Center holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the highest possible score, it indicates a generally good level of care.
* **Emergency Department:** The ER at Hershey Medical Center is equipped to handle acute asthma exacerbations. However, average ER wait times can fluctuate. Data suggests that wait times can sometimes exceed the national average, potentially posing a challenge for patients experiencing severe asthma symptoms. It's crucial to note that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients.
* **Specialty Centers:** Hershey Medical Center features specialized centers that can benefit asthma patients. The hospital's Children's Hospital offers pediatric pulmonology services, crucial for managing asthma in children. They also have a dedicated allergy and immunology clinic, providing comprehensive allergy testing and treatment, which is often linked to asthma triggers.
* **Telehealth:** Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities. They offer virtual appointments with specialists, including pulmonologists and allergists. This is a significant advantage for asthma patients, allowing for convenient follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of symptoms. The availability of telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** Hershey Medical Center offers asthma education programs and support groups. These programs empower patients with knowledge about asthma management, medication adherence, and trigger avoidance. They also provide a platform for patients to connect with others facing similar challenges.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Regional Contender**

Located a short drive from Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital presents another option for asthma care. While not directly in the 17021 ZIP code, its proximity makes it accessible for many residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS, similar to Hershey Medical Center. This rating suggests a comparable level of overall quality.
* **Emergency Department:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital's ER is equipped to handle asthma emergencies. ER wait times can vary, and it's advisable to check current wait times before seeking care.
* **Specialty Centers:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a pulmonary department that provides care for asthma patients.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has also expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual appointments with specialists.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** UPMC Harrisburg Hospital may offer asthma education programs and support groups.

**WellSpan York Hospital: A Further Option**

WellSpan York Hospital, while further afield, is another option for those in the region.

* **CMS Star Rating:** WellSpan York Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Department:** WellSpan York Hospital's ER is equipped to handle asthma emergencies. ER wait times can vary.
* **Specialty Centers:** WellSpan York Hospital has a pulmonary department that provides care for asthma patients.
* **Telehealth:** WellSpan York Hospital has also expanded its telehealth services, offering virtual appointments with specialists.
* **Asthma-Specific Programs:** WellSpan York Hospital may offer asthma education programs and support groups.

**Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers: Considerations**

Several smaller community hospitals and urgent care centers are located in the broader region surrounding Hershey. These facilities can be useful for less severe asthma exacerbations or for initial assessment. However, they may not have the same level of specialized resources or expertise as the larger hospitals. It's essential to consider the severity of your asthma symptoms when deciding where to seek care. For severe asthma attacks, the emergency departments of the larger hospitals are generally the preferred choice.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial consideration for asthma patients. Delays in treatment can worsen asthma symptoms and potentially lead to serious complications. The data on ER wait times in the region can be variable. Patients should always check current wait times through hospital websites or online platforms before heading to the ER.

**Telehealth: Convenience and Accessibility**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important tool in asthma management. Virtual appointments with pulmonologists and allergists offer convenience, especially for follow-up visits and medication adjustments. Telehealth can also be valuable for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty traveling. The availability of telehealth services is a significant advantage for hospitals serving the 17021 ZIP code.

**Asthma-Specific Programs: Empowering Patients**

Asthma education programs and support groups are valuable resources for asthma patients. These programs provide patients with knowledge about asthma triggers, medication management, and self-care techniques. They also offer a platform for patients to connect with others and share experiences. Hospitals that offer these programs demonstrate a commitment to comprehensive asthma care.

**The "Asthma Score" Assessment: Key Takeaways**

Based on the available data, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center emerges as a strong contender for asthma care in the 17021 ZIP code. Its comprehensive services, including a dedicated pulmonary division, pediatric pulmonology, allergy and immunology clinic, and telehealth capabilities, make it a well-rounded option. While its CMS star rating is not the highest, it indicates a generally good level of care. However, patients should be mindful of potential ER wait times.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and WellSpan York Hospital offer viable alternatives, especially considering their telehealth services.

**Recommendations for Asthma Patients in 17021**

* **Establish a relationship with a pulmonologist or allergist:** Regular check-ups and personalized management plans are crucial for controlling asthma.
* **Develop an asthma action plan:** This plan should outline steps to take when symptoms worsen, including when to seek emergency care.
* **Be aware of ER wait times:** Check current wait times before heading to the ER, especially during peak hours.
* **Utilize telehealth services:** Take advantage of virtual appointments for convenient follow-up care and medication management.
* **Consider asthma education programs:** These programs can empower patients with the knowledge and skills needed to manage their asthma effectively.
* **Know your triggers:** Identify and avoid asthma triggers to minimize symptoms.
* **Carry rescue medication:** Always have a quick-relief inhaler readily available.
* **If symptoms worsen, seek immediate medical attention:** Don't hesitate to go to the ER if you experience severe shortness of breath, chest tightness, or difficulty breathing.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a critical decision. This "Asthma Score" review provides a detailed overview of the healthcare options available near Hershey, PA (17021). By considering the factors discussed, asthma patients can make informed decisions and access the care they need to live healthy and fulfilling lives. Remember to always consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.