17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17090, Shermans Dale, Pennsylvania is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near ZIP Code 17090

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. Residents of ZIP code 17090, encompassing the town of Wernersville, Pennsylvania, have several options within a reasonable radius. This review analyzes key factors, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help you make an informed decision.

**Proximity and Major Players**

The immediate vicinity of Wernersville doesn't house a major flagship hospital. However, several reputable institutions are within a commutable distance, primarily in Reading, PA (approximately 10-15 miles east), and Harrisburg, PA (approximately 50-60 miles west). These cities offer a broader range of specialized services and expertise in respiratory care.

**Tower Health System: A Local Presence**

Tower Health, a prominent healthcare system in the region, has a significant presence near 17090. Reading Hospital, located in Reading, is a key component. It's a large, regional referral center, often serving as a primary point of contact for residents in the area.

**Reading Hospital: CMS Star Rating and Emergency Care**

Reading Hospital holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a three-star rating isn't the highest possible, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration for asthma patients. Unfortunately, specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate significantly. However, resources like the ER Wait Times website and Google Maps can provide estimates based on current conditions. It's always advisable to call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information, especially during peak hours or periods of high patient volume.

**Reading Hospital: Specialty Centers and Respiratory Expertise**

Reading Hospital boasts specialized centers and departments that are relevant to asthma care. The Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine department is a key resource. This department houses pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists who diagnose and treat respiratory conditions, including asthma. They offer comprehensive services, including pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, and advanced therapies.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Reading Hospital offers telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with their physicians remotely. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. Telehealth can reduce the need for in-person visits, saving time and travel costs. The specific telehealth services offered, including the types of appointments available and the technology used, are best confirmed by contacting Reading Hospital directly.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity: Expanding the Options**

Beyond Reading Hospital, residents of 17090 have other options, though travel times may be longer.

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

Located approximately an hour's drive west, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major academic medical center. It boasts a higher CMS star rating than Reading Hospital, often receiving four or five stars. This indicates a strong commitment to quality and patient care.

**Hershey Medical Center: Specialized Asthma Care**

Hershey Medical Center has a robust Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine division. They have specialists experienced in managing complex asthma cases, including severe asthma and asthma exacerbations. The hospital is also a teaching hospital, meaning that they are involved in research and advancements in the field of respiratory care. This can translate to access to cutting-edge treatments and a high level of expertise.

**Hershey Medical Center: ER Wait Times and Telehealth**

Similar to Reading Hospital, real-time ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center fluctuate. Checking online resources or calling the hospital directly is essential. Hershey Medical Center also provides telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up care. The specifics of their telehealth offerings should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

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

Another option, located west of 17090, is UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg. This hospital is a part of the UPMC system, a well-regarded healthcare network. The CMS star rating for UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg should be checked directly on the CMS website, as ratings can change.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg: Respiratory Services**

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg offers comprehensive pulmonary services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of asthma. They have pulmonologists and respiratory therapists who are experienced in managing asthma. Details on their specific services, including specialized clinics or programs, are best found by contacting the hospital directly.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg: ER Wait Times and Telehealth**

ER wait times at UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, like other hospitals, are subject to change. Check online resources or call the hospital for the most current information. UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth, and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg likely offers telehealth services for asthma patients. Confirm the specific offerings with the hospital.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for asthma care, several factors should be considered:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel, especially during a flare-up?
* **CMS Star Rating:** This provides a general indication of quality, but it's not the only factor.
* **Specialized Asthma Care:** Does the hospital have a dedicated pulmonary department or asthma center?
* **ER Wait Times:** How quickly can you be seen in an emergency?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Can you access remote consultations and follow-up care?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Check online reviews and testimonials to get insights into patient experiences.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like hospital size, atmosphere, and your comfort level.

**Conclusion**

Residents of ZIP code 17090 have a range of options for asthma care. Reading Hospital offers a local presence with essential services. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg provide access to more specialized care and potentially higher CMS ratings, though they require longer travel times. Assessing your individual needs, considering the factors outlined above, and contacting the hospitals directly for the most up-to-date information will enable you to make the best decision for your respiratory health. Remember to always have a personalized asthma action plan and to seek immediate medical attention if your symptoms worsen.