17247, Quincy, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17247, Quincy, Pennsylvania is 78 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Shippensburg, PA (17247)

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is critical, especially during a flare-up. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17247), evaluating their capabilities based on factors relevant to asthma patients, including emergency room wait times, specialist availability, and telehealth options. We’ll delve into the data, focusing on publicly available information to provide a clear picture of the respiratory care landscape.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review doesn't assign a numerical "score" in the traditional sense. Instead, it provides a comprehensive overview of key performance indicators (KPIs) and resource availability, allowing individuals to make informed decisions based on their specific needs and preferences. Factors considered include:

* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Distance from Shippensburg is a primary consideration, factoring in travel time during an emergency.
* **Emergency Room Capabilities:** ER wait times, staffing levels, and specialized equipment for respiratory distress are crucial.
* **Pulmonary Specialists:** Availability of board-certified pulmonologists, allergists, and other relevant specialists is paramount.
* **Specialty Centers:** Existence of dedicated asthma clinics, respiratory therapy departments, and pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
* **Telehealth Services:** Availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring options for ongoing asthma management.
* **Hospital Ratings:** CMS star ratings and other publicly available performance data are considered.

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

The immediate vicinity of Shippensburg offers a limited number of hospitals. Residents often seek care in nearby cities like Chambersburg, Carlisle, and Harrisburg, which offer a wider range of healthcare options.

**UPMC Carlisle (Carlisle, PA): A Closer Look**

Located approximately 25 miles east of Shippensburg, UPMC Carlisle is a significant healthcare provider. While not a flagship hospital with the highest CMS star ratings, UPMC Carlisle is a community hospital offering essential services.

* **Emergency Room:** UPMC Carlisle's ER is a critical access point. Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate, so it is advisable to check real-time wait times via their website or through third-party apps. The ER is equipped to handle respiratory emergencies.
* **Pulmonary Services:** UPMC Carlisle has a pulmonary department with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. They offer diagnostic testing and treatment for various respiratory conditions, including asthma.
* **Specialty Centers:** UPMC Carlisle may offer specialized programs for asthma management, such as respiratory therapy.
* **Telehealth:** UPMC's telehealth platform provides virtual consultations with specialists, which can be beneficial for asthma patients needing follow-up care or medication adjustments. Telehealth availability and specific specialist access should be confirmed directly with UPMC.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital (Chambersburg, PA): A Strong Contender**

WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, situated approximately 15 miles southwest of Shippensburg, is another important option.

* **Emergency Room:** WellSpan Chambersburg's ER is typically a busy facility. ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day and the severity of patient influx. Real-time wait times are usually available on the WellSpan website or through third-party apps. The ER is equipped to manage respiratory distress.
* **Pulmonary Services:** WellSpan Chambersburg has a pulmonary department with pulmonologists. They offer comprehensive respiratory care, including asthma management.
* **Specialty Centers:** WellSpan Chambersburg offers a respiratory therapy department, which is crucial for asthma patients. They may also have dedicated asthma clinics or programs.
* **Telehealth:** WellSpan Health provides telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists and other specialists. Specific telehealth options for asthma management should be confirmed directly with WellSpan.

**Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center (Camp Hill, PA): A Further Reach**

Located approximately 50 miles east of Shippensburg, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center is a larger hospital with a broader range of services.

* **Emergency Room:** Holy Spirit's ER is a high-volume facility. ER wait times can be longer than those at smaller hospitals. Real-time wait times are usually available online. The ER is equipped to handle complex respiratory emergencies.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Holy Spirit has a robust pulmonary department with a team of pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other specialists.
* **Specialty Centers:** Holy Spirit offers a comprehensive range of respiratory services, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs and potentially dedicated asthma clinics.
* **Telehealth:** Penn State Health offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists. Details on specific asthma-related telehealth options should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA): A Flagship Option (Further Distance)**

Approximately 65 miles east of Shippensburg, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major academic medical center. It is a flagship hospital with a high CMS star rating, indicating a high level of quality and patient care.

* **Emergency Room:** Hershey Medical Center's ER is a high-volume, Level I trauma center. ER wait times can be significant. Real-time wait times are usually available online. The ER is equipped to handle the most complex respiratory emergencies.
* **Pulmonary Services:** Hershey Medical Center has a nationally recognized pulmonary department with a large team of specialists, including pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists.
* **Specialty Centers:** Hershey Medical Center has specialized centers for asthma and other respiratory conditions, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options. They may also have pulmonary rehabilitation programs.
* **Telehealth:** Penn State Health offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pulmonologists and remote monitoring programs for asthma patients.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Beyond the specific hospital capabilities, several factors should influence your decision:

* **Severity of Asthma:** For severe asthma or frequent exacerbations, a hospital with a dedicated pulmonary department and specialized asthma programs is ideal.
* **Proximity and Travel Time:** Consider the travel time, especially during an emergency.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like patient reviews, hospital reputation, and communication style of the medical staff.

**Additional Considerations for Asthma Patients**

* **Asthma Action Plan:** Always carry a written asthma action plan provided by your physician.
* **Medication Availability:** Ensure your preferred asthma medications are readily available at the hospital pharmacy.
* **Allergy Testing:** If allergies trigger your asthma, confirm that the hospital has allergy testing capabilities.
* **Patient Education:** Look for hospitals that provide patient education on asthma management.

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

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for asthma patients. It offers several benefits:

* **Convenience:** Virtual consultations eliminate the need for travel, saving time and effort.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth expands access to specialists, especially for patients in rural areas.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some telehealth programs offer remote monitoring of lung function and symptoms.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth allows for medication adjustments and refills.

**Data Sources and Limitations**

This review relies on publicly available information from hospital websites, CMS data, and other sources. Data on ER wait times can change frequently. It is essential to verify information directly with the hospitals.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a personalized decision. The hospitals near Shippensburg, PA, offer varying levels of respiratory care. UPMC Carlisle and WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital are closer options, while Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center and Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center offer more comprehensive services, but at a greater distance. Consider your individual needs, insurance coverage, and the factors outlined in this review to make the best choice for your asthma management. Always consult with your primary care physician or pulmonologist to determine the most appropriate healthcare provider for your specific situation.