23523, Norfolk, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23523, Norfolk, Virginia is 57 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near 23523

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23523 ZIP code, providing a fact-rich assessment to help you make informed decisions. We'll examine key factors, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Access**

The 23523 ZIP code, encompassing parts of Virginia Beach and Norfolk, Virginia, is served by a network of hospitals with varying levels of asthma care expertise. Proximity is a significant factor, but quality of care should be paramount. We'll delve into the specifics of each facility, focusing on their asthma-related services and performance metrics.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Major Player**

Sentara Healthcare dominates the healthcare landscape in this region. Several Sentara hospitals are within reasonable driving distance of 23523, making them a primary consideration for many residents.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** This is a flagship hospital within the Sentara system. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, a decent indicator of overall quality. While the CMS rating doesn't specifically focus on asthma care, it reflects a hospital's commitment to patient safety and effective treatment across various conditions. Emergency room wait times at Sentara Norfolk General can fluctuate, but generally, you can expect to wait between 30 minutes to an hour. This data is based on publicly available information and can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the ER's current patient load. Sentara Norfolk General has a comprehensive respiratory care department, staffed by pulmonologists and respiratory therapists, which is crucial for asthma management. The hospital also has a dedicated intensive care unit (ICU) equipped to handle severe asthma exacerbations. They are also known to have advanced diagnostic capabilities, including pulmonary function testing (PFTs) and allergy testing.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** This hospital is another significant option. While it also has a 4-star CMS rating, similar to Norfolk General, it provides a comparable level of service. ER wait times are often similar to those at Norfolk General, typically ranging from 30 minutes to an hour, but again, this can change. Virginia Beach General has a robust respiratory care unit and offers similar diagnostic and treatment options as its sister hospital.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital:** Located in Norfolk, this hospital provides another point of access to the Sentara system. It also has a 4-star CMS rating. Emergency room wait times here are generally in line with the other Sentara facilities, although they may vary. Leigh Hospital has a respiratory therapy department that is equipped to handle asthma cases.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** Located in Virginia Beach, this hospital is another option within the Sentara system. It has a 3-star CMS rating. ER wait times are variable, and it's always a good idea to call ahead or check online resources for the most current information. Princess Anne offers respiratory care services for asthma patients.

**Bon Secours Health System: Another Option**

Bon Secours is another major healthcare provider in the area.

**Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center:** This hospital is located in Norfolk and offers a range of services. CMS ratings are not available, but you can check the hospital's website for other quality indicators. ER wait times can vary, so it's best to check current wait times before heading to the ER. DePaul offers respiratory care services and has pulmonologists on staff.

**Specialized Asthma Centers and Resources**

While most hospitals offer asthma care, some facilities have specialized centers or programs. Investigating these can be beneficial for those with complex asthma needs. Unfortunately, there are no dedicated, standalone asthma centers in the immediate vicinity of 23523. However, within the pulmonology departments of the hospitals listed above, you can often find specialized asthma clinics or programs. These clinics may offer comprehensive asthma management, including education, personalized treatment plans, and access to clinical trials.

**Telehealth and Asthma Management**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, especially for managing chronic conditions like asthma. Many hospitals offer telehealth services, including virtual appointments with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. This can be particularly helpful for routine follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and asthma education. Sentara and Bon Secours both have telehealth platforms. Check their websites for details on how to access these services. Telehealth can also be used for remote monitoring of asthma symptoms, which can help patients and their doctors identify potential flare-ups early on.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially during an asthma attack. Publicly available data provides an estimate of wait times, but these can fluctuate. Checking online resources or calling the hospital directly before heading to the ER is recommended. Shorter wait times can be critical during a severe asthma exacerbation. It is important to note that wait times are not the only factor to consider. The level of care and expertise available at a particular ER is also essential.

**Pediatric Asthma Considerations**

If you have children with asthma, consider hospitals with dedicated pediatric emergency departments and pediatric pulmonologists. Sentara Norfolk General and Sentara Virginia Beach General both have pediatric services. Bon Secours DePaul Medical Center also offers pediatric care.

**Beyond the Basics: Additional Factors**

Beyond the core services, consider these factors:

* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission indicates a commitment to quality and patient safety. Check the accreditation status of each hospital.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online patient reviews can provide insights into the patient experience, including the responsiveness of staff and the overall quality of care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.

**Making Your Decision**

Choosing the best hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration. Evaluate the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Consider your individual needs and preferences, including your insurance coverage and proximity to the hospital. Contact the hospitals directly to inquire about their asthma services and programs. Remember, the best hospital is the one that provides you with the highest quality of care and helps you manage your asthma effectively.