17037, Ickesburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17037, Ickesburg, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Hershey, PA (ZIP Code 17037)

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially when a respiratory emergency strikes. This review focuses on hospitals near Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17037), analyzing factors relevant to asthma patients, including quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**A Note on Methodology:** This review prioritizes publicly available data, including CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star ratings, hospital websites, and publicly reported wait times. Data accuracy is dependent on the reporting of each individual hospital.

**The Flagship: Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center**

The undisputed leader in the region is Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. As a Level I Trauma Center and a teaching hospital, Hershey Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of services, including advanced respiratory care. CMS gives Hershey Medical Center a respectable 3-star rating. While this is not the highest possible score, it indicates a generally average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide.

The hospital’s Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine division is a key resource for asthma patients. They provide comprehensive diagnostic and treatment options, including pulmonary function testing, advanced imaging, and specialized therapies. Hershey Medical Center also boasts a dedicated pediatric pulmonology department, crucial for children with asthma.

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for asthma patients. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, Hershey Medical Center generally reports wait times that are in line with, or slightly above, the national average. Patients can often access wait time information on the hospital's website or through online platforms like Google.

Hershey Medical Center has been actively expanding its telehealth offerings. They provide telehealth consultations for follow-up appointments and chronic disease management, which can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients needing ongoing care and monitoring. This allows patients to connect with their pulmonologists remotely, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Other Contenders: Exploring Options in the Region**

Beyond Hershey Medical Center, several other hospitals in the surrounding area offer asthma care. These facilities may be closer to specific communities, offering convenience and potentially shorter travel times.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA):** Located approximately 15 miles east of Hershey, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is another major medical center. While UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is not directly within the 17037 ZIP code, it serves a significant patient population in the surrounding area.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. The hospital offers a pulmonary department that provides services for asthma management and treatment. They also have an emergency department that is equipped to handle respiratory emergencies.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital are variable and depend on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital usually publishes average wait times on its website or through online resources.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital (Lebanon, PA):** Situated approximately 15 miles east of Hershey, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital is another option for residents in the area. This hospital is a community hospital that provides a wide range of medical services.

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. The hospital has a pulmonary department that offers services for asthma management and treatment. They also have an emergency department that is equipped to handle respiratory emergencies.

Emergency room wait times at WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital are variable and depend on the time of day and the volume of patients. The hospital usually publishes average wait times on its website or through online resources.

**Evaluating Key Metrics: Beyond Star Ratings**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, but they shouldn't be the sole determinant of care. Several other factors are crucial for asthma patients.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** For asthma patients, rapid access to emergency care is paramount. Shorter wait times can significantly impact outcomes during an acute asthma exacerbation. Hospitals often publish average ER wait times, but these are just averages. Patients should consider the time of day and day of the week when assessing potential wait times.

**Pulmonary Specialty Centers:** A dedicated pulmonary department with experienced pulmonologists and respiratory therapists is vital. These specialists provide comprehensive diagnostic testing, treatment plans, and ongoing management of asthma.

**Pediatric Pulmonology:** For children with asthma, a pediatric pulmonology department is essential. These specialists have specific expertise in diagnosing and treating asthma in children.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth offers significant advantages for asthma patients. Remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management can improve patient outcomes and reduce the need for frequent hospital visits.

**Access to Medications and Therapies:** Hospitals should have readily available access to essential asthma medications and therapies, including bronchodilators, corticosteroids, and nebulizers.

**Patient Education and Support:** Hospitals should provide patient education and support services, including asthma action plans, inhaler technique training, and support groups.

**Making Informed Decisions: Considerations for Asthma Patients**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care involves careful consideration of several factors.

**Proximity and Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access, especially during an asthma emergency.

**Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Physician Referrals:** If you have a primary care physician or a pulmonologist, consult them for recommendations.

**Hospital Reputation:** Research the hospital's reputation for asthma care, including patient reviews and testimonials.

**Specialized Services:** Determine if the hospital offers specialized services, such as pediatric pulmonology or advanced therapies.

**Telehealth Availability:** Assess the hospital's telehealth capabilities and whether they meet your needs.

**Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure that the hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle asthma emergencies.

**Conclusion: A Landscape of Care**

The area surrounding Hershey, PA (ZIP code 17037) offers several options for asthma care, with Hershey Medical Center as the primary flagship hospital. However, patients should explore all available options, considering factors such as ER wait times, specialized services, telehealth capabilities, and personal preferences. By carefully evaluating these factors, asthma patients can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the best possible care for their condition. Remember that this review is a starting point, and it is crucial to consult with your physician and conduct further research to determine the most suitable hospital for your individual needs.