17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17889, Winfield, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating the Best Hospitals Near Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 17889)

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially when a flare-up strikes. This review delves into the hospital landscape near Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17889), providing a fact-rich assessment to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth capabilities, focusing on the most relevant institutions for asthma patients.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate vicinity of Selinsgrove offers a limited selection of hospitals. However, several regional healthcare providers are within a reasonable driving distance, providing a range of options for asthma care. We will focus on those hospitals that are most accessible and offer the most robust services.

**Geisinger Medical Center, Danville, PA (Approximately 15 miles)**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville stands out as the flagship hospital in the region. It's a major tertiary care center and a significant player in the healthcare landscape. Geisinger consistently receives high marks for quality and patient safety. As of the latest available data, Geisinger Medical Center holds a **4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects its performance across various quality metrics, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

Geisinger has a dedicated **Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine Department**, which is crucial for asthma management. The department likely employs pulmonologists specializing in asthma and offers comprehensive diagnostic and treatment services. This includes pulmonary function testing, allergy testing, and advanced therapies for severe asthma. While specific data on an "Asthma Center" designation is unavailable, the breadth of services offered within the Pulmonary Department strongly suggests a focus on asthma care.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times are a critical factor during an asthma exacerbation. While precise, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to understand the general trends. Geisinger Medical Center's ER wait times are generally within the regional average, but it's advisable to check current wait times through their website or a third-party app before heading to the ER. The hospital’s website will often display current wait times.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Geisinger is a leader in telehealth services. They offer a wide range of virtual care options, including consultations with specialists, follow-up appointments, and chronic disease management programs. This is particularly beneficial for asthma patients, allowing for convenient access to care, medication refills, and education on asthma management. Telehealth can be especially helpful in managing asthma triggers and preventing flare-ups. Look for their telehealth portal for details.

**Other Considerations for Geisinger:** Geisinger has a strong reputation for research and innovation. They are often at the forefront of new treatments and technologies. They also have a robust patient education program, which is essential for asthma management.

**UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury, PA (Approximately 20 miles)**

UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury is another hospital to consider. It is closer to Selinsgrove than Geisinger. UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury is a community hospital and is part of the larger UPMC network.

**CMS Star Rating:** UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury has a **3-star rating from CMS**.

**Pulmonary Services:** UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury provides pulmonary services, which include care for asthma patients. The hospital likely has pulmonologists and respiratory therapists on staff.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury are comparable to other regional hospitals. It is advisable to check real-time wait times before going to the ER.

**Telehealth:** UPMC has expanded its telehealth offerings across its network. UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury likely offers telehealth consultations and virtual follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations:** UPMC is a large healthcare system, which provides access to specialists and resources.

**Evangelical Community Hospital, Lewisburg, PA (Approximately 10 miles)**

Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg is the closest hospital to Selinsgrove. It is a community hospital that serves the immediate area.

**CMS Star Rating:** Evangelical Community Hospital has a **4-star rating from CMS**.

**Pulmonary Services:** Evangelical Community Hospital offers pulmonary services. They have pulmonologists and respiratory therapists on staff.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:** Emergency room wait times at Evangelical Community Hospital are generally shorter than at larger hospitals. However, it is still important to check real-time wait times.

**Telehealth:** Evangelical Community Hospital is expanding its telehealth services. They likely offer telehealth consultations and virtual follow-up appointments.

**Other Considerations:** Evangelical Community Hospital is a community hospital that provides personalized care.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Specialist Access and Outpatient Care**

While hospital-based care is essential during acute asthma episodes, ongoing management often involves specialists and outpatient services. Identifying pulmonologists and allergists in the region is crucial. Contacting the hospitals directly, or using online physician finders, can help you locate these specialists.

**Outpatient Pulmonary Clinics:** Many hospitals and healthcare systems operate outpatient pulmonary clinics. These clinics provide a range of services, including pulmonary function testing, asthma education, and medication management.

**Allergy Clinics:** Allergies are a major trigger for asthma. Access to allergy testing and treatment is essential. Look for allergy clinics affiliated with the hospitals or independent practices in the area.

**The Importance of Asthma Action Plans**

Regardless of the hospital you choose, having a detailed asthma action plan is paramount. This plan, developed in consultation with your physician, outlines the steps to take during an asthma flare-up. It should include information on medications, peak flow monitoring, and when to seek emergency care.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the best hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration of several factors. Geisinger Medical Center, with its high CMS star rating, comprehensive pulmonary services, and robust telehealth capabilities, is a strong contender. UPMC Susquehanna Sunbury and Evangelical Community Hospital also provide important options. Evaluating ER wait times, specialist availability, and the hospital's commitment to telehealth is crucial. By gathering this information and working closely with your physician, you can make an informed decision and ensure you receive the best possible care for your asthma. Remember to always have an asthma action plan and be prepared to act quickly during an asthma emergency.