23669, Hampton, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23669, Hampton, Virginia is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score Review: Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23669**

Navigating asthma care can be complex, and choosing the right hospital is crucial. This review assesses hospitals near ZIP code 23669 (Newport News, Virginia), focusing on factors relevant to asthma patients, including emergency room wait times, specialized asthma centers, telehealth capabilities, and overall quality ratings. We'll consider flagship hospitals, CMS star ratings, and other key metrics to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review uses a multi-faceted "Asthma Score" framework, considering several critical factors for asthma patients:

* **Emergency Room (ER) Performance:** Average wait times are crucial. Long waits can be dangerous for asthma exacerbations.
* **Specialized Asthma Centers:** Presence of dedicated asthma clinics or programs indicates expertise.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth offers convenient access to care for asthma management.
* **Overall Hospital Quality:** CMS Star Ratings and other quality indicators reflect a hospital's overall performance.
* **Accessibility and Location:** Proximity to ZIP code 23669 and ease of access.

**Flagship Hospitals and Their Asthma Care Profiles**

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News, VA):** Riverside Regional Medical Center, a major player in the Hampton Roads region, is a primary consideration. Riverside is the largest hospital in the area. It is a Level II Trauma Center, offering comprehensive services.

* **ER Performance:** Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate. Check the hospital's website or resources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare for the most current information.
* **Specialized Asthma Centers:** Riverside has a Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine department. This department provides a range of services, including diagnosis, treatment, and management of respiratory conditions like asthma.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Riverside has been expanding its telehealth services, including remote patient monitoring and virtual consultations. Inquire about their specific telehealth offerings for asthma management.
* **Overall Hospital Quality:** Riverside generally receives favorable ratings from CMS. Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for the most up-to-date star ratings and performance data.
* **Accessibility and Location:** Located in Newport News, Riverside is easily accessible for residents of ZIP code 23669.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital (Hampton, VA):** Located in Hampton, VA, Sentara CarePlex Hospital is another key option.

* **ER Performance:** Similar to Riverside, ER wait times are subject to change. Check the hospital's website or other resources for real-time information.
* **Specialized Asthma Centers:** Sentara CarePlex has a Respiratory Care department. Inquire about their specific asthma management programs and resources.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Sentara Health system has invested in telehealth, including virtual visits and remote monitoring. Check with Sentara CarePlex for specific asthma-related telehealth offerings.
* **Overall Hospital Quality:** Sentara hospitals generally receive good ratings from CMS and other quality organizations. Check the CMS Hospital Compare website for specific ratings.
* **Accessibility and Location:** Sentara CarePlex is a reasonable drive from Newport News, making it accessible to residents of ZIP code 23669.

**Other Important Considerations**

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

For asthma patients, ER wait times can be a matter of life and death. Long waits can lead to a worsening of symptoms and potential complications. Check hospital websites, or use resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website, to get the most up-to-date data on average ER wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Look for hospitals with dedicated pulmonary departments, asthma clinics, or respiratory care programs. These specialized centers often have experienced pulmonologists, respiratory therapists, and other healthcare professionals specializing in asthma care.

**Telehealth: Convenience and Access**

Telehealth can be a valuable tool for asthma management. It allows for remote consultations, medication management, and patient education. Inquire about telehealth options for asthma care at the hospitals you are considering.

**CMS Star Ratings and Overall Hospital Quality**

The CMS Hospital Compare website provides valuable information on hospital quality, including star ratings. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Higher-rated hospitals generally provide higher-quality care.

**Accessibility and Travel Time**

Consider the distance to the hospital and the ease of access. In an asthma emergency, every minute counts. Choose a hospital that is easily accessible from your location.

**Specific Asthma-Related Services to Inquire About**

When contacting hospitals, ask about the following:

* **Asthma Action Plans:** Do they provide individualized asthma action plans?
* **Asthma Education:** Do they offer patient education programs on asthma management?
* **Pulmonary Function Testing:** Do they have advanced pulmonary function testing capabilities?
* **Respiratory Therapy:** Do they have experienced respiratory therapists?
* **Pediatric Asthma Care:** If you have a child with asthma, inquire about pediatric asthma specialists.

**Data Sources and Disclaimer**

This review is based on publicly available information and general industry knowledge. Always verify the most current information directly with the hospitals. ER wait times and other metrics can change. This review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is a critical decision. Riverside Regional Medical Center and Sentara CarePlex Hospital are strong contenders for residents of ZIP code 23669. Consider factors like ER wait times, specialized programs, telehealth capabilities, and overall quality ratings when making your decision. Always verify the most current information directly with the hospitals and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations. Prioritize the hospital that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care for your asthma management.