18251, Sybertsville, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18251, Sybertsville, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score Review: Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 18251**

Navigating asthma care can be complex, and choosing the right hospital is critical. This review, focusing on hospitals near ZIP code 18251 (Tamaqua, Pennsylvania), provides a fact-rich assessment to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine key factors including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to offer a clear picture of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses regarding asthma treatment.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review uses a modified "Asthma Score" framework, prioritizing elements relevant to asthma patients. These include:

* **Accessibility:** Proximity to ZIP code 18251, ease of access, and transportation options.
* **Emergency Care:** ER wait times, staff expertise in asthma exacerbations, and availability of advanced respiratory support.
* **Specialized Care:** Presence of dedicated asthma centers, pulmonology specialists, and allergy/immunology services.
* **Technology and Innovation:** Telehealth capabilities, access to advanced diagnostic tools, and participation in asthma-related research.
* **Patient Experience:** Overall patient satisfaction scores, reviews focusing on asthma care, and ease of communication.
* **Quality Metrics:** Hospital ratings from CMS and other organizations, focusing on respiratory care and patient outcomes.

**Hospital Profiles**

**Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill (Pottsville, PA)**

Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill, located approximately 20 miles from Tamaqua, is a key contender. This hospital is part of the larger Lehigh Valley Health Network, which often translates to a broader range of resources. However, it is important to note that the CMS star rating for the overall hospital is not available. This lack of a rating makes it more difficult to gauge overall quality.

Emergency Room wait times are a critical factor. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to check the Lehigh Valley Health Network website or use online tools to get the most up-to-date information before heading to the ER. The hospital’s emergency department is equipped to handle asthma exacerbations, and the network has pulmonologists on staff.

Regarding specialized care, Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill has a network of specialists. However, a dedicated asthma center may not be available. Patient experience data is available through patient satisfaction surveys, which can provide insights into the quality of care.

Telehealth capabilities are increasingly important. Lehigh Valley Health Network offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital (Orwigsburg, PA)**

Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital in Orwigsburg is another option, located roughly 15 miles from Tamaqua. This hospital is part of the Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated healthcare model. Geisinger St. Luke's does not have a CMS star rating available.

ER wait times are a significant factor. Check the Geisinger website or use online tools to get real-time ER wait times. The emergency department is equipped to handle asthma emergencies, and the hospital has pulmonologists on staff.

Geisinger is known for its integrated healthcare system. The hospital has a network of specialists, and access to allergy and immunology services is available. While a dedicated asthma center may not be present, the integrated approach can facilitate coordinated care.

Telehealth is a growing focus at Geisinger. The health system has expanded its telehealth offerings, which can be advantageous for asthma patients. Patient experience data is available through patient satisfaction surveys.

**St. Luke's Hospital–Bethlehem Campus (Bethlehem, PA)**

St. Luke's Hospital–Bethlehem Campus is a larger hospital, located approximately 50 miles from Tamaqua. This hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. While not the highest rating, it indicates a level of quality that should be considered.

Emergency Room wait times are an important consideration. Check the St. Luke's website or online tools for the most up-to-date information. The emergency department is equipped to handle asthma emergencies. The hospital has pulmonologists on staff.

St. Luke's has a broader range of specialists. The hospital offers allergy and immunology services. The larger size of the hospital may provide access to more advanced diagnostic tools.

Telehealth capabilities are available. St. Luke's has expanded its telehealth services. Patient experience data is available through patient satisfaction surveys.

**Other Considerations**

**Distance and Accessibility:** The proximity of a hospital to ZIP code 18251 is a key factor. Consider travel time, traffic conditions, and the availability of transportation options.

**Specialty Centers:** The presence of dedicated asthma centers or specialized respiratory care units can be a significant advantage. These centers often have experienced staff and advanced equipment.

**Pulmonology and Allergy/Immunology:** Access to qualified pulmonologists and allergy/immunology specialists is essential for comprehensive asthma care.

**Telehealth:** Telehealth services can be invaluable for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of asthma symptoms.

**Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other asthma patients.

**Emergency Preparedness:** Ensure that the hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle asthma exacerbations, including access to advanced respiratory support.

**Additional Hospitals to Consider (with caveats):**

* **Reading Hospital (Reading, PA):** Located further away (approximately 60 miles), this hospital might be an option depending on the severity of the asthma and the availability of resources. Check CMS ratings and ER wait times.
* **Good Samaritan Hospital (Lebanon, PA):** Approximately 50 miles away, this hospital should be evaluated based on its CMS ratings, ER wait times, and available services.

**Disclaimer:** *Hospital information changes frequently. Always verify information directly with the hospitals. This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with your physician to determine the best hospital for your individual needs.*

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration. This review provides a starting point for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 18251. While Lehigh Valley Hospital–Schuylkill and Geisinger St. Luke's Hospital offer local options, the larger St. Luke's Hospital–Bethlehem Campus, with its 3-star CMS rating, presents a compelling choice. Always prioritize factors like ER wait times, access to specialists, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews when making your decision. Remember to consult with your physician to determine the best hospital for your specific needs. The best hospital is the one that provides the most appropriate and timely care for your asthma.