18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 18708, Shavertown, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near Wilkes-Barre, PA (18708)

Finding the right medical care, especially when managing a chronic condition like asthma, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals and healthcare resources near Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 18708), providing an "Asthma Score" assessment based on factors relevant to asthma patients. We'll examine hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services to help you make informed decisions about your healthcare.

**Proximity and Primary Players:**

The 18708 ZIP code sits in a region with several hospitals serving the population. The most prominent players in the area include Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center, located in Plains Township, and Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, both of which are key considerations for asthma sufferers. Other facilities, such as smaller community hospitals and urgent care centers, also play a role in the overall healthcare landscape.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (GWVMC) is a significant healthcare provider in the region. It’s part of the larger Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated care model. GWVMC holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not a top-tier rating, it provides a benchmark for comparison.

GWVMC has a dedicated pulmonary department, which is essential for asthma care. The department likely offers services like pulmonary function testing (PFTs) to assess lung function, asthma education programs, and specialized consultations with pulmonologists. Patients should inquire about the specific expertise and experience of the pulmonologists within the department, particularly regarding their experience with severe asthma cases or specific asthma triggers.

Emergency room wait times are a critical consideration for asthma patients, as acute asthma exacerbations can require immediate attention. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, resources like the hospital’s website or third-party platforms often provide estimated wait times. It’s advisable to check these resources before heading to the ER, especially during peak hours.

**Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital: Assessing the Landscape**

Wilkes-Barre General Hospital, another major hospital in the area, also provides essential services for asthma patients. This hospital, too, has a pulmonary department, which is critical for asthma care. Patients should investigate the hospital's resources, including the availability of specialized asthma clinics, access to respiratory therapists, and the scope of services offered.

CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for assessing hospital quality. Like GWVMC, Wilkes-Barre General Hospital also has a three-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics. Patients should review the specific data points that contribute to the rating, such as patient safety indicators and readmission rates, to gain a more nuanced understanding of the hospital's strengths and weaknesses.

ER wait times are a key factor for asthma patients. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online resources to get an estimate of wait times. If possible, patients should also inquire about the hospital's protocols for managing asthma emergencies, including the availability of rapid-acting medications and oxygen therapy.

**Specialty Centers and Specialized Asthma Care:**

Beyond general hospital services, the presence of specialty centers can significantly benefit asthma patients. The availability of allergy and immunology clinics is a plus. Allergies are often asthma triggers, so having access to allergy testing and treatment can be very helpful. These clinics typically offer skin prick tests, blood tests, and immunotherapy (allergy shots) to manage allergic reactions and reduce asthma symptoms.

Some hospitals may also have specialized asthma clinics or programs. These clinics often provide comprehensive asthma management, including education, medication management, and personalized care plans. Patients should inquire about the availability of these specialized services and the qualifications of the healthcare professionals involved.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare, and they offer advantages for asthma patients. Telehealth can provide convenient access to consultations with pulmonologists, asthma educators, and other healthcare professionals. It can also be used for medication management and monitoring asthma symptoms remotely.

Patients should inquire about the telehealth services offered by local hospitals and healthcare providers. This includes the types of services available, the technology used, and the availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients who live in rural areas or have difficulty accessing in-person appointments.

**Accessibility and Patient Experience:**

Accessibility is a crucial factor for asthma patients. This includes the physical accessibility of the hospital and clinics, as well as the availability of transportation options. Patients should inquire about the availability of parking, public transportation, and any other services that can help them access healthcare.

Patient experience is also important. Patients should consider factors like the hospital's staff, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the overall atmosphere. They can also read online reviews and testimonials from other patients to get an idea of the hospital's reputation.

**Community Resources and Support:**

Beyond hospitals, several community resources can assist asthma patients. Local asthma and allergy support groups can provide valuable information, education, and emotional support. The American Lung Association and the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America are excellent resources for information about asthma management and advocacy.

**Asthma Score Assessment:**

Based on the available information, an "Asthma Score" assessment can be formulated. This score is subjective and considers the following factors:

* **Hospital Quality (CMS Star Rating):** Both GWVMC and Wilkes-Barre General Hospital hold three-star ratings, indicating a moderate level of quality.
* **Pulmonary Department Services:** Both hospitals offer pulmonary departments, which are essential for asthma care.
* **Specialty Centers:** The presence of allergy and immunology clinics is a plus, but the availability of specialized asthma clinics needs to be confirmed.
* **Telehealth Services:** The availability of telehealth services is a positive factor, offering convenient access to care.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical consideration, and patients should check for up-to-date information.
* **Accessibility and Patient Experience:** These factors are important for overall patient satisfaction.
* **Community Resources:** The availability of local support groups and national organizations adds value.

**Recommendations and Considerations:**

For residents of the 18708 ZIP code, Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center and Commonwealth Health Wilkes-Barre General Hospital are the primary options for asthma care. Patients should research the specific services offered by each hospital, including the expertise of the pulmonologists, the availability of specialized clinics, and the accessibility of telehealth services.

Patients should also consider their individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital. Factors like proximity, insurance coverage, and personal experiences can all influence the decision.

It is important to stay informed about local healthcare options and to advocate for your own health. Regularly review your asthma action plan with your healthcare provider, and be prepared to seek immediate medical attention if your asthma symptoms worsen.