23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23459, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 71 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating the Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23459

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. This review delves into the hospital landscape near ZIP code 23459 (Virginia Beach, VA), focusing on factors relevant to asthma patients: quality of care, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth accessibility. We'll examine flagship institutions, CMS star ratings, and other key metrics to help you make informed decisions.

**The Landscape: Major Players and Proximity**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 23459 area are Sentara Healthcare and CHKD Health System. Sentara dominates the region, with multiple hospitals offering varying levels of care. CHKD (Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters) is a specialized pediatric facility, critical for children with asthma. Proximity is a major consideration. While driving times can vary, the closer the hospital, the quicker you can receive treatment during an asthma emergency.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Deep Dive**

Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, located at 1060 First Colonial Rd, Virginia Beach, VA 23454, is a major player. It boasts a 3-star CMS rating, reflecting its overall quality of care. While not the highest rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of service. The hospital has a comprehensive emergency department that handles a high volume of patients. ER wait times, a critical factor for asthma patients, fluctuate. Data from recent months suggests average wait times can range from 30 minutes to over an hour, depending on the time of day and patient volume. It’s crucial to remember these are averages; individual experiences can vary. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital has a dedicated pulmonary department, offering specialized care for asthma and other respiratory conditions. They provide diagnostic testing, including pulmonary function tests (PFTs), and access to respiratory therapists.

Sentara Princess Anne Hospital, located at 2025 Glenn Mitchell Dr, Virginia Beach, VA 23456, is another option. It has a 3-star CMS rating. The hospital offers a full range of services, including an emergency department. ER wait times are generally comparable to those at Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital, with similar fluctuations based on demand. Princess Anne Hospital also has a pulmonary department, providing asthma management and treatment.

Sentara Leigh Hospital, located at 830 Kempsville Rd, Norfolk, VA 23502, is a bit further afield, but still accessible. It's important to consider the distance, especially during a respiratory crisis. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

**CHKD Health System: Pediatric Expertise**

CHKD (Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters), located at 601 Children's Ln, Norfolk, VA 23507, is a specialized pediatric hospital. For children with asthma, CHKD is a crucial resource. It’s a highly regarded facility with a strong focus on pediatric respiratory care. While not directly in the 23459 ZIP code, it is easily accessible and often the preferred choice for children. CHKD’s emergency department is equipped to handle pediatric asthma emergencies, with specialized staff and equipment. ER wait times for children can vary, but the hospital generally strives to provide prompt care. CHKD has a dedicated pulmonary department that offers comprehensive asthma management, including specialized treatments and education for children and their families.

**Emergency Room Efficiency: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant concern for asthma patients. Long waits can exacerbate symptoms and potentially lead to more severe complications. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often delayed, making it difficult to get real-time information. However, resources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) and hospital websites can provide some insight into average wait times. Checking these resources before heading to the ER can help you prepare for potential delays. Consider calling the hospital's emergency department to inquire about current wait times, although this information may not always be readily available.

**Specialty Centers and Services**

Beyond the emergency room, consider the availability of specialized asthma services. Look for hospitals with dedicated pulmonary departments staffed by pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and asthma educators. These specialists can provide comprehensive asthma management, including:

* **Diagnostic Testing:** Pulmonary function tests (PFTs) to assess lung function.
* **Medication Management:** Adjusting medications and ensuring proper inhaler technique.
* **Asthma Education:** Providing patients and families with the knowledge and skills to manage asthma effectively.
* **Allergy Testing and Treatment:** Identifying and managing allergy triggers.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important for asthma management. Many hospitals and healthcare providers offer virtual consultations, medication refills, and asthma education through telehealth platforms. This can be especially helpful for:

* **Routine Check-ups:** Monitoring asthma control and adjusting medications.
* **Asthma Education:** Providing education and support to patients and families.
* **Follow-up Appointments:** Checking in after an emergency room visit or hospitalization.

Sentara Healthcare has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual urgent care visits. CHKD also provides telehealth services for pediatric patients. Check with your insurance provider to determine coverage for telehealth services.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. They are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the only factor to consider, CMS ratings can be a useful starting point when evaluating hospitals. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally demonstrate better performance across a range of quality measures. However, it's important to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

**Additional Considerations**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to get insights into their experiences.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by reputable organizations, such as The Joint Commission.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access, especially during an emergency.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration of multiple factors. Proximity, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth accessibility are all crucial. Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital and Sentara Princess Anne Hospital are the closest major hospitals in the area, offering comprehensive care. CHKD is the preferred choice for children. Evaluate the CMS star ratings, but also consider the specific services and expertise offered by each hospital. Contact the hospitals directly to inquire about ER wait times, pulmonary services, and telehealth options. By researching and comparing these factors, you can make an informed decision and ensure that you or your loved one receives the best possible asthma care. Remember, this review is a starting point; consult with your primary care physician or pulmonologist for personalized recommendations.