17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17813, Beavertown, Pennsylvania is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score: Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 17813**

This review evaluates hospital resources for asthma care near the 17813 ZIP code, focusing on factors crucial for asthma patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. The analysis incorporates data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and publicly available information to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Proximity and Key Hospitals**

The 17813 ZIP code, primarily encompassing the town of Danville, Pennsylvania, is served by a network of hospitals, with Geisinger Medical Center in Danville being the most prominent. Other nearby facilities, while not directly within the ZIP code, offer alternative options and are included in this review.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Flagship Institution**

Geisinger Medical Center (GMC) is the dominant healthcare provider in the region. GMC is a large, tertiary care center and the flagship hospital of the Geisinger Health System. It boasts a high volume of patients and a wide range of medical specialties.

**CMS Star Rating and Quality Metrics**

GMC has a CMS star rating, which is a publicly available indicator of hospital quality. The rating, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience, provides a snapshot of overall hospital performance. It's important to note that CMS ratings can fluctuate, so it's crucial to check the most current rating.

**Emergency Department (ER) Performance**

ER wait times are a critical consideration for asthma patients, as rapid access to care can be life-saving. Publicly available data on ER wait times at GMC should be consulted. These times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. It's important to note that ER wait times are often an estimate and can be influenced by the severity of a patient's condition.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Services**

GMC likely offers specialized services relevant to asthma management. These may include pulmonology departments, allergy clinics, and respiratory therapy services. The presence of board-certified pulmonologists and allergists is a positive indicator of quality care. Access to pulmonary function testing (PFT) and other diagnostic tools is also essential for asthma diagnosis and monitoring.

**Telehealth and Virtual Care**

Telehealth services are increasingly important for asthma management, allowing patients to access care remotely, especially for routine check-ups and medication adjustments. GMC's telehealth capabilities, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs, should be assessed. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

While GMC is the primary provider, other hospitals in the region may offer alternative options for asthma care. These facilities might include smaller community hospitals or hospitals within a reasonable driving distance.

**UPMC Susquehanna (Williamsport)**

UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport, Pennsylvania, is another major healthcare provider in the region. It's located approximately an hour's drive from Danville. UPMC Susquehanna has a CMS star rating and provides a range of services, including pulmonary care.

**ER Wait Times and Services**

UPMC Susquehanna's ER wait times should be researched. Information on their pulmonology and allergy services, including the availability of specialists and diagnostic tools, should be examined.

**Other Hospitals**

Additional hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, such as those in Bloomsburg or Sunbury, should be considered. Their services, ER wait times, and specialty care options should be evaluated.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a crucial factor for asthma patients. The ease of access to hospitals, including factors like transportation options, parking availability, and public transportation routes, should be considered. For patients in rural areas, transportation can be a significant barrier to accessing care.

**Patient Experience and Reviews**

Patient reviews and testimonials can offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide information on patient satisfaction, wait times, and the overall quality of care. However, it's important to consider that patient reviews are subjective and may not always reflect the full picture of hospital performance.

**Medication and Pharmacy Access**

Access to asthma medications and pharmacies is a critical aspect of asthma management. The proximity of pharmacies to hospitals and the availability of a wide range of asthma medications should be assessed. Hospitals with on-site pharmacies can provide convenient access to medications for patients.

**Asthma Education and Support Programs**

Hospitals that offer asthma education and support programs can play a vital role in empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. These programs may include asthma education classes, support groups, and resources for patients and their families.

**Hospital Policies and Procedures**

Hospital policies and procedures related to asthma care, such as asthma action plans and protocols for treating asthma exacerbations, should be examined. Hospitals that adhere to established guidelines and protocols can provide high-quality, evidence-based care.

**Community Resources and Support**

The availability of community resources and support groups for asthma patients can enhance the overall quality of care. Local asthma organizations and support groups can provide valuable information, education, and peer support.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near the 17813 ZIP code requires careful consideration of several factors. Geisinger Medical Center, as the flagship hospital, is likely the primary choice for many residents. However, patients should also evaluate other hospitals in the region, considering factors such as ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews. By carefully assessing these factors, asthma patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care. It is recommended to consult with a primary care physician or pulmonologist to determine the best care plan.