19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 19134, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating the Healthcare Landscape Near 19134

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially in a city like Philadelphia, where access to quality healthcare can vary significantly. This review analyzes the hospitals closest to the 19134 ZIP code, providing a fact-rich assessment to help individuals make informed decisions about their asthma treatment. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The 19134 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Hunting Park and Nicetown-Tioga, is situated in North Philadelphia. Residents in this area often face socioeconomic challenges that can impact health outcomes. Proximity to high-quality healthcare is therefore a critical factor. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, considering accessibility for residents of 19134.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures, including patient safety, mortality rates, and patient experience. These ratings provide a valuable, albeit imperfect, snapshot of overall hospital performance.

One of the major players in the region is **Temple University Hospital**, located relatively close to 19134. Temple, a large academic medical center, typically boasts a respectable CMS star rating, though this can fluctuate. The hospital is known for its robust pulmonary and critical care departments, which are essential for managing severe asthma exacerbations. Temple's affiliation with the Lewis Katz School of Medicine provides access to cutting-edge research and advanced treatment options.

Another prominent option is **Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia**, also in the vicinity. Einstein is a large, multi-campus hospital system that serves a diverse patient population. It usually carries a solid CMS star rating. Einstein's pulmonology department provides comprehensive asthma care, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and patient education.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

For asthma patients experiencing a flare-up, quick access to emergency care is paramount. ER wait times can significantly impact patient outcomes.

Temple University Hospital, due to its high patient volume, can experience fluctuating ER wait times. It's advisable to check real-time wait times on their website or through online platforms before heading to the ER.

Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia, like Temple, serves a large population. ER wait times can vary depending on the day and time, but the hospital generally strives to provide timely care. Checking wait times online or via phone is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma Expertise:**

Beyond general pulmonology departments, specialized asthma centers can offer a higher level of expertise and resources. These centers often have dedicated teams of pulmonologists, allergists, nurses, and respiratory therapists who specialize in asthma management.

Temple University Hospital's pulmonary department is a key resource for asthma patients. They offer a wide range of services, including advanced diagnostic testing, such as pulmonary function tests (PFTs) and allergy testing. They also provide comprehensive asthma education programs to help patients manage their condition effectively.

Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia also has a strong pulmonology department. They offer a range of asthma-related services, including medication management, nebulizer treatments, and patient education.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, which can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

Both Temple University Hospital and Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia have expanded their telehealth capabilities in recent years. They offer virtual consultations with pulmonologists and other specialists, allowing patients to discuss their asthma symptoms, medication adjustments, and other concerns from the comfort of their homes.

**Specific Considerations for 19134 Residents:**

Accessibility is a key consideration for residents of 19134. Transportation challenges and limited access to personal vehicles can make it difficult to reach hospitals located further away.

Both Temple University Hospital and Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia are accessible via public transportation. The SEPTA (Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority) bus and subway lines provide convenient access to these hospitals.

**Other Notable Hospitals and Considerations:**

While Temple and Einstein are the primary focus, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may also be relevant.

**Hahnemann University Hospital**, though it closed in 2019, previously served the area. This highlights the dynamic nature of healthcare access and the importance of staying informed about available resources.

**Children's Hospital of Philadelphia (CHOP)**, although primarily focused on pediatric care, is a world-renowned institution. If a child in the 19134 area requires asthma care, CHOP is an exceptional choice.

**Evaluating Asthma Care: Key Questions to Ask:**

When choosing a hospital for asthma care, patients should consider several key questions:

* **What are the hospital's CMS star ratings?**
* **What are the average ER wait times?**
* **Does the hospital have a dedicated asthma center or specialized pulmonology services?**
* **What telehealth options are available?**
* **How accessible is the hospital via public transportation?**
* **What are the patient reviews and satisfaction scores?**

**The Bottom Line:**

For residents of the 19134 ZIP code, Temple University Hospital and Einstein Medical Center Philadelphia are the most readily accessible and well-equipped options for asthma care. Both hospitals offer comprehensive pulmonology services, including specialized asthma management programs and telehealth capabilities. However, it's crucial to assess ER wait times and consider individual needs and preferences when making a decision. Regularly checking hospital websites for the most up-to-date information on wait times, services, and telehealth options is recommended.