17835, Laurelton, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17835, Laurelton, Pennsylvania is 49 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Care in the Heart of Pennsylvania: A Hospital Review Near 17835

Finding the best asthma care is a critical concern, especially for residents of the 17835 ZIP code, encompassing the town of Lewisburg, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas. This review delves into the hospitals closest to this location, examining their capabilities in managing asthma, from emergency room services to specialized treatment centers and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a clear picture of the available resources, empowering patients and families to make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, is the dominant healthcare provider in the region, located a short drive from Lewisburg. It holds a strong reputation and is a flagship hospital within the Geisinger Health System. Geisinger consistently receives high marks for its comprehensive care, including its asthma management programs.

The hospital boasts a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**, a testament to its overall quality and patient outcomes. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and readmission rates. Geisinger's commitment to quality is further demonstrated through its numerous accreditations and awards.

For asthma patients, the hospital’s emergency room is a crucial point of access. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, Geisinger generally strives to maintain reasonable wait times, which can be crucial during an asthma exacerbation. The hospital's emergency department is well-equipped to handle respiratory emergencies, with trained staff and readily available medications.

Geisinger's pulmonology department is a significant asset. The department offers a wide range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of asthma. They have specialists who are well-versed in the latest asthma treatments, including inhaled corticosteroids, long-acting beta-agonists, and biologics for severe asthma. The hospital also offers pulmonary rehabilitation programs, which can be beneficial for asthma patients seeking to improve their lung function and overall quality of life.

Telehealth is another area where Geisinger excels. They offer a variety of telehealth services, including virtual appointments with pulmonologists and other specialists. This can be particularly helpful for asthma patients who need regular check-ups or medication adjustments, reducing the need for in-person visits. The health system has invested heavily in its telehealth infrastructure, making it a convenient and accessible option for many patients.

**Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, PA: Local Convenience**

Located directly within the 17835 ZIP code, Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg offers a more localized option for healthcare. It provides convenient access to emergency services and a range of medical specialties.

Evangelical's emergency department is a vital resource for the Lewisburg community. While specific ER wait times vary, the hospital strives to provide prompt and efficient care. The emergency department is equipped to handle asthma-related emergencies, with trained staff and the necessary medications and equipment.

Evangelical has a strong focus on community health and offers a range of outpatient services. While it may not have the same breadth of specialized pulmonology services as Geisinger, it provides access to primary care physicians who can manage asthma and refer patients to specialists when needed. The hospital's commitment to patient-centered care is a notable strength.

Evangelical also offers telehealth services, providing patients with access to virtual consultations and follow-up appointments. This can be a convenient option for asthma patients who need regular check-ups or medication refills.

**Other Considerations: Access to Specialists and Specialized Care**

While Geisinger and Evangelical are the primary hospital options, residents of the 17835 ZIP code may also consider accessing specialized care at other facilities, particularly if they have severe or complex asthma.

The availability of board-certified pulmonologists is a key factor in asthma care. Both Geisinger and Evangelical have pulmonologists on staff, but the specific expertise and experience of these physicians may vary. Patients with complex asthma may benefit from seeking out specialists with expertise in specific areas, such as severe asthma or allergy-related asthma.

Access to specialized asthma clinics is another important consideration. These clinics often offer comprehensive care, including pulmonary function testing, allergy testing, and education on asthma management. Geisinger has a more robust network of specialized clinics compared to Evangelical.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially during an asthma exacerbation. While specific wait times can fluctuate, it is essential to understand the general performance of each hospital's emergency department. Patients should be aware of the typical wait times at both Geisinger and Evangelical and be prepared to seek care at the facility with the shortest wait time during an emergency. Real-time wait time information is often available online or through hospital apps.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important tool in asthma management. Both Geisinger and Evangelical offer telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for asthma patients who need regular check-ups, medication adjustments, or education on asthma management. Telehealth can also reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, saving patients time and travel costs.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Measure of Quality**

The CMS star ratings provide a valuable overview of hospital quality. Geisinger's 4-star rating is a testament to its overall performance, while Evangelical's rating may vary. Patients should review the CMS ratings and other quality metrics when choosing a hospital for asthma care. These ratings reflect a hospital's performance across a range of factors, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience.

**Specialty Centers: Tailored Care**

For patients with complex asthma or other related conditions, access to specialty centers can be crucial. Geisinger has a more extensive network of specialty centers, including pulmonary rehabilitation programs and allergy clinics. These centers offer specialized care and expertise in managing asthma and related conditions.

**Conclusion: Choosing the Right Asthma Care**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near the 17835 ZIP code requires careful consideration of several factors, including access to emergency services, the availability of pulmonologists and specialized care, ER wait times, telehealth options, and overall hospital quality. Geisinger Medical Center, with its 4-star CMS rating and comprehensive services, is a strong option for many patients. Evangelical Community Hospital offers a convenient local alternative. Patients should weigh their individual needs and preferences when making a decision. The best approach is to gather information, consult with their primary care physician, and choose the hospital that best meets their specific needs and provides the highest level of care. This review provides a starting point for making an informed decision about asthma care in the Lewisburg area.