19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 19034, Fort Washington, Pennsylvania is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near 19034

Living with asthma requires proactive management and access to quality healthcare. For residents near the 19034 ZIP code (Drexel Hill, Pennsylvania), understanding the local hospital landscape is crucial. This review assesses the key players, focusing on factors vital to asthma patients: specialized care, emergency services, and access to modern telehealth options. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the availability of crucial asthma-related services.

**The Big Players: University of Pennsylvania Health System**

The University of Pennsylvania Health System (UPHS) casts a long shadow over the region, and its flagship hospital, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP), is a primary consideration. HUP, located in Philadelphia, is a high-volume, nationally recognized facility. While not directly within the 19034 ZIP code, its proximity and comprehensive services make it a central point of reference.

HUP holds a respectable four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the absolute gold standard, reflects a generally good performance across various quality metrics, including patient safety and outcomes. For asthma patients, this translates to a higher likelihood of receiving evidence-based care. However, CMS ratings are a snapshot and should be considered alongside other factors.

Emergency room wait times at HUP can fluctuate. Data from third-party sources like ProPublica and Healthgrades offer insights into average wait times, but these are just averages. It's essential to remember that ER wait times are highly variable and depend on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of other patients' conditions. Checking real-time wait times through hospital websites or apps, if available, is always recommended before heading to the ER.

UPHS also boasts specialized centers. The Penn Lung Center offers comprehensive pulmonary care, including advanced diagnostic testing and treatment for asthma. This center provides a multidisciplinary approach, bringing together pulmonologists, allergists, and respiratory therapists. Access to such specialized care is a significant advantage for patients with complex or poorly controlled asthma.

**Nearby Alternatives: Crozer-Keystone Health System**

The Crozer-Keystone Health System (CKHS), with its network of hospitals, offers another important option for residents near 19034. Crozer-Chester Medical Center, located in Upland, Pennsylvania, is a major hospital within the system and a potential choice for emergency care and asthma management.

Crozer-Chester's CMS star rating is a crucial factor. As with HUP, a solid rating indicates a commitment to quality. Checking the latest CMS ratings is essential, as they can change.

ER wait times at Crozer-Chester are another critical consideration. Tracking these wait times through online resources and hospital-provided information is highly recommended. Shorter wait times can be crucial during an asthma exacerbation.

CKHS also offers specialized pulmonary services, though the depth and breadth may vary compared to a larger academic center like Penn. Investigating the specific expertise and resources available at Crozer-Chester is essential for patients seeking specialized asthma care.

**Delaware County Memorial Hospital: A Local Option**

Delaware County Memorial Hospital (DCMH), part of the Crozer-Keystone Health System, is a closer option for residents of 19034. Its proximity can be a significant advantage, especially during an asthma emergency.

As with other hospitals, checking the CMS star rating and ER wait times for DCMH is crucial. Shorter wait times can be a lifesaver during an asthma attack.

DCMH’s pulmonary services should be investigated. While it may not have the same level of specialization as a larger center, it can provide essential asthma management and treatment. The availability of on-site respiratory therapists is particularly important.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, which can be particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and education.

UPHS and CKHS have both invested in telehealth services. These services can include virtual appointments with pulmonologists, allergists, and other specialists. The availability of telehealth options can improve access to care, particularly for patients who have difficulty traveling or who live in areas with limited access to specialists.

The specifics of telehealth offerings, such as the types of appointments available, the technology used, and the insurance coverage, should be investigated. Patients should also inquire about the availability of remote monitoring devices, such as peak flow meters and pulse oximeters, which can help them monitor their asthma symptoms and manage their condition more effectively.

**Specialty Centers: Allergy and Immunology**

Asthma often co-exists with allergies. The availability of allergy and immunology specialists is, therefore, a critical factor. Both UPHS and CKHS offer allergy and immunology services.

The Penn Allergy and Immunology practice, for example, provides comprehensive allergy testing and treatment, including immunotherapy (allergy shots). This type of specialized care can be crucial for patients with allergic asthma.

Patients should inquire about the specific expertise of the allergists and immunologists, including their experience with treating asthma and related conditions.

**Respiratory Therapy: A Critical Component**

Respiratory therapists play a vital role in asthma management, providing education, administering medications, and assisting patients during asthma exacerbations. The availability of respiratory therapists in the emergency room and in outpatient settings is a critical factor.

Patients should inquire about the availability of respiratory therapists at the hospitals they are considering, as well as the types of services they provide.

**Medication Management: Ensuring Access**

Access to asthma medications is essential. Patients should inquire about the hospital's pharmacy services, including the availability of commonly prescribed asthma medications and the ability to fill prescriptions quickly.

**Patient Education: Empowering Self-Management**

Patient education is a cornerstone of asthma management. Hospitals should offer asthma education programs, including information on triggers, medications, and self-management techniques.

Patients should inquire about the availability of asthma education programs and the types of educational materials offered.

**Research and Innovation: Staying Ahead of the Curve**

For patients seeking cutting-edge care, hospitals involved in asthma research are an advantage. Research can lead to new treatments and improved outcomes.

UPHS, as a major academic medical center, is actively involved in asthma research. Patients should inquire about the hospital's research activities and the availability of clinical trials.

**Navigating the Choices: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a personal decision. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and the severity of the asthma.

Consider the following factors:

* **Proximity:** How close is the hospital to your home?
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Are the wait times reasonable?
* **CMS Star Rating:** Does the hospital have a good rating?
* **Specialized Services:** Does the hospital offer the specialized care you need, such as allergy and immunology services and a pulmonary center?
* **Telehealth Options:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services?
* **Respiratory Therapy:** Is respiratory therapy readily available?
* **Patient Education:** Does the hospital offer asthma education programs?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance?

**Recommendations**

For residents of 19034, the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, while not directly in the ZIP code, is a strong contender due to its comprehensive services and specialization. However, the Crozer-Keystone Health System, particularly Crozer-Chester Medical Center and Delaware County Memorial Hospital, offer convenient local options. Patients should weigh the factors outlined above and prioritize the hospital that best meets their individual needs. Always verify the most up-to-date information, including CMS ratings and ER wait times, directly with the hospitals before making a decision.