19137, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 19137, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near 19137

Finding the right hospital for asthma care can be a daunting task. This review, focusing on hospitals near the 19137 ZIP code in Philadelphia, aims to provide a fact-rich overview, helping you navigate the healthcare landscape and make informed decisions. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings, painting a comprehensive picture of available resources.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Key Players**

The 19137 ZIP code, encompassing areas like Frankford and Oxford Circle, is served by a diverse network of hospitals. Proximity is a crucial factor in an asthma emergency. Several major medical centers are within a reasonable driving distance, offering varying levels of expertise and resources. The hospitals considered here are those most readily accessible to residents of 19137.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings: A Measure of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a general measure of quality. While not the sole indicator, it's a valuable starting point.

**Temple University Hospital:** Located relatively close to 19137, Temple University Hospital is a major academic medical center. As of the latest available data, Temple University Hospital holds a CMS star rating. This rating reflects a hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. It's important to note that these ratings can fluctuate, so checking the most current information on the CMS website is always recommended. Temple's pulmonary and critical care medicine division is a significant resource for asthma care.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital, formerly Frankford Hospital, is another significant player in the region. It is a community hospital offering a range of services. The hospital's CMS star rating, as with Temple, is subject to change and should be verified on the CMS website. Frankford Hospital's location makes it a convenient option for residents of 19137.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: Time is of the Essence**

In an asthma emergency, rapid access to care is critical. Emergency room wait times can vary significantly between hospitals. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, understanding the general trends is important. Websites like Google and third-party platforms often provide estimated wait times. However, these are just estimates and should be taken with a grain of salt.

**Temple University Hospital:** As a Level I trauma center, Temple University Hospital's ER often experiences high patient volumes. This can sometimes translate to longer wait times. Checking online resources for current estimates before heading to the ER is advisable.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** As a community hospital, Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital may have shorter wait times than larger academic centers, though this is not guaranteed. Checking online resources for current estimates is recommended.

**Specialty Centers and Asthma-Specific Expertise**

Beyond general emergency care, specialized centers and expertise are crucial for effective asthma management.

**Temple University Hospital:** Temple's pulmonary and critical care medicine division is a key resource. They offer comprehensive asthma care, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of complex cases. They likely have specialized asthma clinics and access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatments.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** While not necessarily possessing the same depth of resources as a major academic center, Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital likely has a dedicated pulmonary department. They can provide asthma care and refer patients to specialists if needed.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare access, particularly for chronic conditions like asthma.

**Temple University Hospital:** Temple University Hospital has likely expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations for asthma management. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and patient education. Check their website for details on their telehealth services.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital has likely incorporated telehealth into its asthma care offerings, providing virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. This helps to improve access to care and convenience for patients.

**Specific Programs and Services: Digging Deeper**

Beyond general services, it's important to investigate specific programs and services offered by each hospital.

**Temple University Hospital:** Temple may have specialized asthma clinics, offering comprehensive care and education. They might participate in clinical trials, providing access to cutting-edge treatments. They likely offer respiratory therapy services, including nebulizer treatments and pulmonary function testing.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital may have asthma education programs, empowering patients to manage their condition effectively. They may offer support groups and resources for asthma patients and their families. They likely provide respiratory therapy services.

**Pediatric Asthma Care: Considerations for Children**

Asthma is a common condition in children. When considering hospitals, the availability of pediatric specialists and resources is critical.

**Temple University Hospital:** Temple University Hospital has a strong pediatric presence, including pediatric pulmonologists. This makes it a strong option for children with asthma. They have specialized pediatric emergency rooms and intensive care units.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital has a pediatric department, but may not have the same level of pediatric specialization as a major academic center. They can provide care for children with asthma and refer to specialists if needed.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences: The Human Element**

While objective data is crucial, patient reviews and experiences offer valuable insights. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews provide platforms for patients to share their experiences. Read reviews to get a sense of the hospital's patient-centeredness, communication, and overall quality of care. Be mindful that individual experiences can vary.

**Insurance and Cost: Navigating the Financial Aspects**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. Before choosing a hospital, verify your insurance coverage and understand the associated costs. Contact the hospital's billing department to inquire about estimated costs for asthma-related services.

**Temple University Hospital:** As a major academic center, Temple University Hospital may have higher costs than community hospitals.

**Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital:** As a community hospital, Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital may have lower costs.

**Staying Informed: Resources and Updates**

Healthcare information is constantly evolving. Regularly check the hospitals' websites for updates on services, programs, and telehealth offerings. Consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the best hospital for asthma care near 19137 requires careful consideration of various factors. Temple University Hospital, with its academic resources and specialized expertise, is a strong contender. Jefferson Health – Frankford Hospital, with its convenient location, offers a valuable alternative. Consider CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, patient reviews, and insurance coverage. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. By gathering this information, you can make an informed decision and ensure you receive the best possible care for your asthma.