23454, Virginia Beach, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23454, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 35 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Respiratory Care Near Virginia Beach (23454)

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially when dealing with a respiratory condition. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23454 ZIP code, offering a fact-rich assessment of their asthma-related services, including emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and overall quality indicators. This information will help you make informed decisions about your respiratory health needs.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Area**

The 23454 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Virginia Beach, Virginia, is served by a diverse healthcare landscape. Several major hospital systems compete for patients, each offering a range of services. Access to care is generally good, but the quality and specialization of asthma treatment can vary significantly. This review aims to highlight these differences, focusing on the hospitals most likely to be utilized by residents of this area.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Dominant Force**

Sentara Healthcare is a major player in the Hampton Roads region, and its facilities are prominent near 23454. Sentara operates several hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses regarding asthma care.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** This is a flagship hospital for Sentara, often serving as a primary point of care for residents in the area. While the hospital doesn't have a specific, dedicated "Asthma Center" as such, it offers comprehensive respiratory services. Its emergency room is generally well-equipped to handle asthma exacerbations. The hospital's overall CMS star rating is a useful metric, though it reflects broader quality indicators than just asthma care. Check the most recent CMS ratings for the most current data. Be aware that these ratings can fluctuate. ER wait times at Virginia Beach General can vary, so it’s wise to check the hospital's website or use online tools to get the most up-to-date estimates before seeking care. Telehealth services are available, potentially providing follow-up care and medication management for asthma patients. Specific telehealth stats for asthma are not always publicly available, but inquire directly with the hospital for details on their asthma-related telehealth offerings.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** Located within the broader Virginia Beach area, Princess Anne Hospital also provides emergency services and respiratory care. Like Virginia Beach General, it doesn't have a dedicated asthma center, but its emergency department is equipped to manage acute asthma episodes. CMS star ratings should be consulted for an overall quality assessment. ER wait times are variable and should be checked before visiting. Telehealth options, including virtual appointments with pulmonologists or respiratory specialists, may be available, though specifics on asthma-related telehealth are best obtained by contacting the hospital directly.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital:** While further from the 23454 ZIP code, Sentara Leigh Hospital is another option within the Sentara network. Its emergency department is also equipped to handle asthma cases. CMS ratings and ER wait times should be considered when evaluating this option. Telehealth capabilities may be available, so check with the hospital for specifics.

**Other Hospital Options: Exploring Alternatives**

While Sentara dominates the local healthcare market, other hospitals near 23454 provide additional choices.

**Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD):** CHKD is a dedicated children's hospital, and a crucial resource for pediatric asthma care. It has a specialized pediatric pulmonary department that manages asthma and other respiratory conditions in children. CHKD's emergency department is specifically geared towards pediatric emergencies, including asthma exacerbations. The hospital's reputation for pediatric care is strong, and it offers a range of specialized services. Check the hospital's website for the most up-to-date information on ER wait times, which are particularly important for children experiencing breathing difficulties. CHKD has a robust telehealth program, offering virtual visits with pediatric pulmonologists and other specialists. They may offer specific telehealth programs tailored to asthma management in children, including medication education and monitoring.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center:** Located in Portsmouth, this hospital is another option for residents in the area. It offers emergency services and respiratory care, but doesn’t have a dedicated asthma center. ER wait times should be checked before visiting. Telehealth options may be available, so inquire with the hospital.

**Navigating Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor when dealing with an asthma attack. Longer wait times can lead to delays in treatment, potentially worsening the condition. Hospitals near 23454 vary in their ER wait times, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume. Several online resources provide real-time or estimated ER wait times, including hospital websites, online search engines, and mobile apps. These tools can help you make informed decisions about where to seek emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Pulmonary Expertise**

While few hospitals near 23454 have dedicated "Asthma Centers," the presence of pulmonologists (lung specialists) and respiratory therapists is vital. Look for hospitals with a strong pulmonary department, experienced in diagnosing and treating asthma. Inquire about the availability of specialized asthma clinics or programs, which may offer comprehensive care, including education, medication management, and regular follow-up appointments. CHKD is a key resource for pediatric asthma care, offering specialized expertise in this area.

**Telehealth and Asthma Management**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Virtual appointments with pulmonologists or respiratory specialists can provide convenient follow-up care, medication adjustments, and patient education. Many hospitals near 23454 offer telehealth services, though the availability and scope of asthma-specific telehealth programs can vary. Inquire directly with each hospital about their telehealth offerings, including the types of services available, the technology used, and the cost.

**CMS Star Ratings and Overall Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on various quality metrics. These ratings provide a general overview of a hospital's performance, but they don't specifically focus on asthma care. However, a higher CMS star rating generally indicates better overall quality of care, which can be a factor in your decision-making process. Check the most recent CMS ratings for the hospitals in your area to get the most up-to-date information. Remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle and should be considered alongside other factors, such as ER wait times, specialty services, and patient reviews.

**Patient Reviews and Feedback**

Patient reviews and feedback can provide valuable insights into a hospital's asthma care. Online review platforms, such as Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews, allow patients to share their experiences. Read these reviews to get a sense of the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience. Be aware that individual experiences can vary, and it's wise to consider a range of reviews when making your assessment.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care near 23454 requires careful consideration of several factors. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, along with CHKD for pediatric care, are key options. Evaluate each hospital based on its ER wait times, the availability of pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, telehealth offerings, CMS star ratings, and patient reviews. Remember to check the most up-to-date information on wait times and services directly with the hospitals. By gathering this information, you can make an informed decision that best suits your respiratory health needs.