17040, Landisburg, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17040, Landisburg, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Hummelstown, PA (ZIP Code 17040)

Finding the best hospital for asthma care requires a nuanced understanding of available resources, from emergency room wait times to specialized clinics. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Hummelstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17040), offering an "Asthma Score" assessment based on publicly available data and reported metrics. The goal is to provide clear, concise information to help patients and their families make informed decisions.

**Defining the Score:** This "Asthma Score" isn't a single, universally recognized metric. Instead, it's a composite evaluation considering factors critical for asthma management: accessibility (geographic proximity, wait times), emergency care proficiency, specialist availability, specialized asthma programs, telehealth options, and overall hospital quality indicators like CMS Star Ratings.

**The Contenders:** The primary hospitals serving the Hummelstown area include Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Harrisburg, and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. Each presents a unique profile for asthma patients.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** This flagship hospital, located in Hershey, PA, is a major player in the region. Hershey Medical Center boasts a 4-star CMS rating. This rating reflects overall hospital quality, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While not asthma-specific, a higher rating generally suggests a more robust and well-managed healthcare environment.

Hershey Medical Center features a dedicated Pediatric Pulmonary and Allergy Clinic, a significant advantage for children with asthma. The clinic offers comprehensive evaluations, treatment plans, and ongoing management. The hospital also has a Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine division, providing adult asthma care and management.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor. Data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and other sources indicate that wait times at Hershey Medical Center fluctuate. Patients should check real-time wait times on hospital websites or through third-party apps before arriving at the ER, especially during peak hours. Telehealth is another key consideration. Hershey Medical Center offers telehealth services, including pulmonary consultations, which can be beneficial for routine follow-up appointments and medication adjustments, reducing the need for in-person visits.

**UPMC Harrisburg:** Situated in Harrisburg, PA, UPMC Harrisburg is another major hospital option. UPMC Harrisburg currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. This signifies a generally good level of care, though it may not be as consistently high as a 4 or 5-star facility.

UPMC Harrisburg provides a Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine department, offering asthma management services for adults. The hospital's website should be consulted for details on specific asthma programs or clinics. ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg, like Hershey Medical Center, can vary. Patients should utilize online resources or call the hospital to check current wait times before seeking emergency care. Telehealth options are available at UPMC Harrisburg, with pulmonary consultations as a potential offering.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital:** Located in Lebanon, PA, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital provides another option for residents near Hummelstown. The hospital currently has a 3-star CMS rating.

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital offers pulmonary services, including asthma care. Information on specialized asthma clinics or programs should be verified directly with the hospital. ER wait times should be monitored through the hospital's website or by calling the emergency department. Telehealth services, including pulmonary consultations, may be available; patients should inquire directly with the hospital.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:** Beyond the core hospitals, exploring specialized programs is essential. Hershey Medical Center's Pediatric Pulmonary and Allergy Clinic is a significant advantage for children. UPMC Harrisburg and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital should be contacted directly to determine if they have specific asthma programs or clinics. These programs often offer comprehensive care, including education, personalized treatment plans, and access to respiratory therapists.

**Emergency Room Considerations:** ER wait times are a critical factor for asthma patients. Asthma attacks can escalate quickly, and prompt medical attention is crucial. Check real-time wait times on hospital websites, through apps like Google Maps, or by calling the ER before heading to the hospital. Consider the severity of the asthma attack. If it's life-threatening, call 911 immediately.

**Telehealth's Role:** Telehealth is increasingly important in asthma management. Virtual consultations with pulmonologists or respiratory therapists can provide convenient follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. Check with each hospital to determine the availability of telehealth services for asthma patients.

**Accessibility and Geographic Considerations:** The proximity of hospitals to Hummelstown is a crucial factor. Hershey Medical Center is the closest major hospital, followed by UPMC Harrisburg. WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital is slightly further. Consider travel time, traffic conditions, and ease of access when choosing a hospital.

**Asthma Score Summary (Preliminary):**

* **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Offers a strong foundation with a 4-star CMS rating, a dedicated Pediatric Pulmonary and Allergy Clinic, and telehealth options. ER wait times are a variable.
* **UPMC Harrisburg:** Provides a 3-star CMS rating, pulmonary services, and telehealth. ER wait times should be checked.
* **WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital:** Offers a 3-star CMS rating, pulmonary services, and potential telehealth. ER wait times should be checked.

**Important Considerations:** This review provides a starting point. Patients should consult their primary care physicians, allergists, or pulmonologists for personalized recommendations. Hospital websites, patient reviews, and online resources like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report can provide additional insights.

**Disclaimer:** This "Asthma Score" is a subjective evaluation based on publicly available information. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized healthcare recommendations. Hospital ratings and services are subject to change. Verify all information directly with the hospitals.