18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18614, Dushore, Pennsylvania is 54 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Dallas, PA (18614)

Living with asthma requires vigilance, and access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review assesses the landscape of asthma care near Dallas, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18614), focusing on hospital capabilities, specialty services, and accessibility, including telehealth options. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, and specialized asthma centers to help patients make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The 18614 ZIP code, encompassing Dallas, PA, offers a range of healthcare options, primarily centered around the larger population centers of Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. While smaller community hospitals exist, the more comprehensive care often resides in these regional hubs. This means patients may need to travel, a factor to consider when managing asthma, especially during acute episodes.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, Wilkes-Barre**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) in Wilkes-Barre is a major player in the region. It’s a flagship hospital within the Geisinger Health System, a large integrated healthcare provider. GWVMC holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience, though it's important to remember that star ratings are just one data point.

GWVMC boasts a dedicated pulmonary department, crucial for asthma management. They offer a range of services, including pulmonary function testing, bronchoscopy, and specialized clinics for chronic respiratory conditions. While specific asthma-focused programs are not always explicitly detailed in public information, the presence of a robust pulmonary department suggests a capacity to treat and manage asthma effectively. Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration. While publicly available data fluctuates, patients should expect to check local wait times through the hospital's website or a third-party service before heading to the ER.

**Moses Taylor Hospital, Scranton**

Located in Scranton, Moses Taylor Hospital is another hospital option for residents of the 18614 ZIP code. Moses Taylor has a 3-star rating from CMS. The hospital's pulmonary department offers services relevant to asthma care. Patients should investigate the availability of specialized asthma clinics or programs. ER wait times are another key factor. Check the hospital’s website or third-party sources for the most up-to-date information.

**Commonwealth Health System Hospitals**

The Commonwealth Health System operates several hospitals in the region, including facilities in Wilkes-Barre and Scranton. These hospitals may offer pulmonary services and ER care relevant to asthma management. Patients should research each hospital individually to assess its specific capabilities and resources. CMS star ratings and ER wait times will vary between hospitals within the system.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Care**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized asthma centers or programs is a significant factor. While the region may not have dedicated, standalone asthma centers, the pulmonary departments within the larger hospitals are likely to offer specialized care. This includes access to pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and potentially asthma educators. Patients should inquire about the availability of asthma action plans, personalized treatment strategies, and education programs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Geisinger Health System, as a large integrated provider, has invested heavily in telehealth services. This allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and even remote monitoring of their asthma symptoms. The availability of telehealth can be a significant advantage, especially for patients who have difficulty traveling or live in more rural areas. Patients should inquire about telehealth options with their primary care physicians and pulmonologists.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

When an asthma exacerbation requires emergency care, ER wait times become critical. Long wait times can worsen symptoms and potentially lead to more serious complications. Before heading to the ER, patients should call ahead to inquire about wait times. Be prepared to provide details about your symptoms and medical history. Upon arrival, clearly communicate your asthma diagnosis and any medications you are taking.

**Pediatric Asthma Care**

For children with asthma, access to pediatric pulmonologists and specialized pediatric asthma programs is essential. Patients should inquire about the availability of pediatric asthma services at the hospitals mentioned above. Look for hospitals with dedicated pediatric emergency departments and experienced pediatric respiratory therapists.

**Factors Beyond Hospitals: Primary Care and Specialists**

The quality of asthma care extends beyond hospital services. The patient's primary care physician plays a crucial role in managing asthma, providing ongoing care, and coordinating referrals to specialists. Look for a primary care physician who is knowledgeable about asthma and willing to work collaboratively with a pulmonologist. The availability of specialists, such as allergists, is also important. Allergists can help identify and manage asthma triggers, such as allergens.

**Insurance and Cost Considerations**

Healthcare costs can be a significant burden. Patients should understand their insurance coverage and the associated costs of care, including co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Contact your insurance provider to confirm which hospitals and specialists are in your network.

**Research and Due Diligence**

This review provides a general overview of asthma care options near Dallas, PA (18614). Patients should conduct their own research to gather more specific information. Visit hospital websites, read patient reviews, and consult with their primary care physicians. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the services offered, the expertise of the medical staff, and the availability of specialized programs.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Path to Asthma Management**

Managing asthma effectively requires a proactive approach. Patients in the 18614 ZIP code have access to a range of healthcare options, including hospitals with pulmonary departments, potential telehealth services, and the support of primary care physicians and specialists. By understanding the available resources, researching their options, and actively participating in their care, asthma patients can work towards better symptom control and improved quality of life. Remember that this review is a starting point. Individual needs vary, and the best healthcare choice depends on a variety of factors.