17038, Jonestown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17038, Jonestown, Pennsylvania is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Healthcare for Asthma in the Hershey, PA Area (ZIP Code 17038)**

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a challenge, especially when considering factors like proximity, quality of care, and specialized services. This review focuses on hospitals near Hershey, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17038), providing an "Asthma Score" assessment based on readily available data, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, and availability of specialized asthma care. The goal is to offer a clear picture for individuals and families seeking the best possible asthma management in the region.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Methodology**

This review doesn't assign a single numerical "Asthma Score." Instead, it evaluates hospitals based on key metrics relevant to asthma care. These metrics include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** These ratings, provided by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), offer a general indicator of hospital quality, encompassing patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Asthma exacerbations often require immediate medical attention. Shorter ER wait times can be crucial for patients in distress.
* **Specialty Centers and Programs:** Hospitals with dedicated pulmonary departments, asthma clinics, or specialized programs for respiratory illnesses are highly valued.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for asthma management, allowing for remote monitoring, medication adjustments, and patient education.
* **Physician Availability:** The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists is a significant factor in providing comprehensive asthma care.
* **Patient Reviews and Feedback:** While subjective, patient reviews can offer insights into the patient experience, communication, and overall satisfaction.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Asthma Care Profiles**

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA)**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is the most prominent hospital in the immediate vicinity of ZIP code 17038. It's a Level I trauma center and a major teaching hospital, often serving as a referral center for complex medical cases.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Hershey Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room:** The ER is a high-volume facility, and wait times can vary. Real-time wait time information is typically available on the hospital's website or through online resources.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital boasts a robust pulmonary department with pulmonologists specializing in various respiratory conditions, including asthma. The presence of a dedicated allergy and immunology clinic is also beneficial.
* **Telehealth:** Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth services, which can be advantageous for asthma management, follow-up appointments, and medication adjustments.
* **Physician Availability:** A large medical staff, including board-certified pulmonologists and allergists, is available.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews are mixed, as is typical for large hospitals. It's crucial to read recent reviews to assess current patient experiences.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA)**

While located slightly outside of ZIP code 17038, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital is a major regional medical center and a viable option for many residents.

* **CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room:** ER wait times can fluctuate, and it's advisable to check online resources for current estimates.
* **Specialty Centers:** The hospital has a pulmonary department and offers services for respiratory conditions.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.
* **Physician Availability:** A team of pulmonologists and specialists is available.
* **Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews should be consulted to gauge patient satisfaction.

**Other Hospitals and Considerations**

Several other hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance of Hershey, PA, and may be relevant for asthma care.

* **WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital (Lebanon, PA):** This hospital is located in Lebanon, PA, and may be a convenient option for some residents. Review the hospital's website for information on its pulmonary services and ER wait times.
* **Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA):** Holy Spirit Hospital is another option within a reasonable driving distance. Check the hospital's website for information on its pulmonary services and ER wait times.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital for Asthma Care**

Beyond the specific metrics, several other factors are essential when selecting a hospital for asthma management.

* **Proximity:** Consider the distance to the hospital, especially in emergencies.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Asthma Clinic or Specialized Programs:** Hospitals with dedicated asthma clinics or specialized programs may offer more comprehensive care.
* **Physician-Patient Relationship:** A good relationship with your pulmonologist or allergist is critical for effective asthma management.
* **Hospital Amenities:** Consider the availability of support services, such as respiratory therapy, patient education, and asthma support groups.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for asthma patients. Asthma attacks can be life-threatening, and prompt medical attention is essential. Checking online resources for real-time wait times is highly recommended before heading to the ER. Consider the proximity of several hospitals to have backup options.

**Telehealth: A Growing Resource for Asthma Management**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in asthma management. It allows for remote monitoring of symptoms, medication adjustments, and patient education. Look for hospitals with robust telehealth programs that offer virtual appointments and remote monitoring options.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: The Value of Expertise**

Hospitals with dedicated pulmonary departments, asthma clinics, or specialized programs for respiratory illnesses can provide more comprehensive care. These centers often have specialized equipment, experienced staff, and access to the latest asthma treatments.

**Physician Availability: Access to Specialists**

The availability of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists is a significant factor in providing comprehensive asthma care. These specialists have the expertise to diagnose, treat, and manage asthma effectively.

**Patient Reviews: Insights into the Patient Experience**

Patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, communication, and overall satisfaction. Read recent reviews to get a sense of the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration of various factors. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 17038. By assessing CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, physician availability, and patient reviews, individuals and families can make an informed decision about the best healthcare options for their asthma management needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or asthma specialist for personalized recommendations and guidance.