17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 17921, Ashland, Pennsylvania is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near 17921

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a challenge, particularly when considering factors like proximity, quality of care, and accessibility. This review focuses on hospitals near the 17921 ZIP code, aiming to provide a factual assessment of their asthma-related services, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. This information will help patients and their families make informed decisions about their asthma care.

**Proximity and Geographic Considerations:**

The 17921 ZIP code primarily encompasses the town of Cressona, Pennsylvania, and surrounding areas in Schuylkill County. Healthcare options are somewhat limited in this rural region, necessitating a broader search radius to identify comprehensive asthma care. This review will consider hospitals within a 30- to 60-mile radius, factoring in accessibility and travel time.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website provides valuable data, including star ratings, to assess hospital quality. These ratings are based on a range of measures, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest (Allentown, PA):** Located approximately 45 miles from 17921, Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest is a major regional healthcare provider. As of the latest available data, it holds a CMS star rating. This hospital boasts a comprehensive pulmonary department, including specialists in asthma management. The hospital's website offers detailed information on its respiratory care services, including diagnostic testing and treatment options.

**Reading Hospital (West Reading, PA):** Situated roughly 40 miles from Cressona, Reading Hospital is another significant hospital in the region. It also holds a CMS star rating. Reading Hospital's pulmonary services are well-regarded, with a dedicated team of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. They provide a range of services, including asthma education and management programs.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for asthma patients, especially during acute exacerbations. Data on ER wait times can vary, and it's essential to check the most up-to-date information. Websites like the CMS Hospital Compare and individual hospital websites often provide this information.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest:** ER wait times at Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest can fluctuate. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools that track ER wait times is recommended for real-time information.

**Reading Hospital:** Similar to Lehigh Valley, Reading Hospital's ER wait times should be checked via their website or other online resources. The hospital's ER is a high-volume facility, so patients should be prepared for potential wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Programs:**

Specialized asthma centers and programs offer focused care and resources for asthma patients. These programs often include asthma education, personalized management plans, and access to specialists.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest:** The hospital's pulmonary department likely offers asthma-specific programs. Contacting the department directly is advisable to inquire about available services, such as asthma education classes, support groups, and specialized clinics.

**Reading Hospital:** Reading Hospital also likely has specialized asthma programs. It is crucial to contact the hospital's pulmonary department to determine the availability of asthma-specific services.

**Pediatric Asthma Care:**

For families with children suffering from asthma, pediatric care is a critical consideration.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest:** Lehigh Valley Hospital has a dedicated children's hospital, which would be the best option for pediatric asthma.

**Reading Hospital:** Reading Hospital likely has pediatric services and a pediatric emergency room.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, offering convenient access to care, especially for chronic conditions like asthma.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest:** The hospital's website should be checked for information on telehealth options for asthma patients. This may include virtual consultations with pulmonologists, remote monitoring of lung function, and asthma education programs.

**Reading Hospital:** Similar to Lehigh Valley, Reading Hospital's website should be checked for telehealth services.

**Outpatient Clinics and Physician Practices:**

Beyond hospitals, outpatient clinics and physician practices play a vital role in asthma management.

**Locating Pulmonologists:** Searching online directories, such as those provided by the American Lung Association or the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology, can help identify pulmonologists and allergists in the area.

**Community Health Centers:** Community health centers may offer affordable asthma care and resources. Searching for community health centers in the region is recommended.

**Medication Access and Pharmacy Services:**

Access to medications is crucial for asthma management.

**Hospital Pharmacies:** Both Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest and Reading Hospital have on-site pharmacies.

**Local Pharmacies:** Numerous local pharmacies, including chain pharmacies and independent pharmacies, are available in the area.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations:**

Insurance coverage and financial considerations are critical.

**Insurance Acceptance:** It's essential to verify that the chosen hospitals and physicians accept the patient's insurance plan.

**Financial Assistance:** Hospitals may offer financial assistance programs for patients who qualify.

**Asthma Action Plans and Patient Education:**

Effective asthma management requires a personalized asthma action plan.

**Asthma Action Plans:** Patients should work with their healthcare providers to develop a detailed asthma action plan outlining daily management, symptom recognition, and emergency procedures.

**Patient Education:** Hospitals and physician practices should provide asthma education resources, including information on triggers, medications, and proper inhaler technique.

**Additional Considerations:**

**Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Reading online reviews and seeking recommendations from other asthma patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.

**Asthma-Friendly Environments:** Consider the hospital's environment, including air quality and allergen control measures.

**Research and Clinical Trials:** Some hospitals may participate in asthma research or clinical trials, offering access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Conclusion:**

Navigating asthma care near the 17921 ZIP code requires careful consideration of factors like hospital quality, proximity, specialized services, and accessibility. Lehigh Valley Hospital-Cedar Crest and Reading Hospital, both with CMS star ratings, are major regional healthcare providers. Checking their websites for ER wait times, telehealth options, and asthma-specific programs is crucial. In addition, patients should explore outpatient clinics, physician practices, and local pharmacies. By gathering this information and working closely with their healthcare providers, asthma patients can find the best possible care to manage their condition and improve their quality of life.