23693, Yorktown, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23693, Yorktown, Virginia is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Care in the 23693 Area: A Hospital Score Review

The 23693 ZIP code, encompassing Yorktown, Virginia, is served by a network of hospitals offering varying levels of asthma care. This review delves into the key players, focusing on metrics crucial for asthma patients: overall hospital quality, emergency room efficiency, specialized asthma centers, and telehealth accessibility. We'll consider factors like CMS star ratings, average ER wait times, and the availability of specialized pulmonology services.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Flagship with a Focus**

Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News, a short drive from Yorktown, stands out as a major healthcare provider for the region. It's a flagship hospital within the Riverside Health System, boasting a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects Riverside's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. While the CMS star rating doesn't specifically isolate asthma care, it provides a general indication of the hospital's commitment to overall quality.

Riverside Regional's emergency department is a critical access point for asthma patients. The average ER wait time is a crucial factor for those experiencing acute asthma exacerbations. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, patients and families should check the Riverside Health System website or call the ER directly for the most up-to-date information. The hospital's website often provides estimated wait times.

For specialized asthma care, Riverside Regional offers a pulmonology department with board-certified pulmonologists. These specialists diagnose and treat a range of respiratory conditions, including asthma. They often work in conjunction with respiratory therapists to provide comprehensive care. The hospital also has a dedicated pulmonary rehabilitation program, which can be beneficial for patients with chronic asthma to improve lung function and quality of life.

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like asthma. Riverside Health System has expanded its telehealth offerings, potentially providing virtual consultations with pulmonologists and other specialists. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly helpful for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education, reducing the need for in-person visits. Patients should check the Riverside website or contact their primary care physician for details on telehealth access.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital: A Community Option**

Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, also in Newport News, presents another option for residents of the 23693 area. Mary Immaculate is a community hospital within the Bon Secours Mercy Health system. While it doesn't have a CMS star rating, it's accredited by The Joint Commission, a recognized standard of quality.

The ER at Mary Immaculate is another critical resource for asthma patients. As with Riverside, real-time ER wait times are subject to change. Patients should consult the hospital's website or call the ER directly for the most current information.

Mary Immaculate has a pulmonology department, offering diagnostic and treatment services for asthma and other respiratory illnesses. The hospital's respiratory therapy department plays a vital role in managing acute asthma episodes and providing ongoing respiratory support.

Telehealth is an increasingly important part of the healthcare landscape. Bon Secours Mercy Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, potentially providing virtual consultations with pulmonologists and other specialists. The availability of telehealth services can be particularly helpful for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and patient education, reducing the need for in-person visits. Patients should check the Bon Secours website or contact their primary care physician for details on telehealth access.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Facilities and Urgent Care**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, the 23693 area is served by smaller medical facilities and urgent care centers. These facilities can be useful for less severe asthma symptoms or for initial assessments. However, for severe asthma exacerbations, the emergency departments of Riverside Regional and Mary Immaculate are the preferred destinations.

Urgent care centers often offer services for acute illnesses, including asthma. However, they may not have the same level of specialized expertise or equipment as a hospital ER. When selecting an urgent care center, patients should confirm that it has the necessary resources to manage asthma symptoms and that it can quickly transfer patients to a hospital if needed.

**Key Metrics: ER Wait Times and Specialty Access**

ER wait times are a critical metric for asthma patients. During an asthma attack, every minute counts. Shorter wait times can significantly improve patient outcomes. Patients should always check current wait times before heading to the ER.

Access to specialized pulmonology services is also crucial. Board-certified pulmonologists are equipped to diagnose and manage complex asthma cases. Patients with persistent or severe asthma should seek care from a pulmonologist.

**Telehealth's Growing Role**

Telehealth is transforming asthma management. Virtual consultations with pulmonologists can provide convenient access to care, especially for routine check-ups and medication adjustments. Telehealth can also facilitate patient education and self-management strategies.

**Patient Education and Self-Management**

Regardless of the hospital chosen, patient education is paramount. Asthma patients should be well-versed in their asthma action plans, medication usage, and trigger avoidance strategies. Hospitals and pulmonologists often provide educational resources and support groups.

**Conclusion: Choosing the Right Care**

For residents of the 23693 area, Riverside Regional Medical Center and Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital offer the most comprehensive asthma care. Riverside's four-star CMS rating reflects its commitment to overall quality. Both hospitals have emergency departments, pulmonology departments, and telehealth capabilities. Patients should consider factors like ER wait times, proximity, insurance coverage, and their individual needs when selecting a hospital. Consulting with a primary care physician or pulmonologist can also help patients determine the best course of action. Remember to always seek immediate medical attention for severe asthma symptoms.