23707, Portsmouth, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23707, Portsmouth, Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near ZIP Code 23707**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. This review focuses on hospitals near the 23707 ZIP code (Portsmouth, Virginia), evaluating their asthma-related services, including emergency care, specialized programs, and overall quality indicators. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth availability to provide a comprehensive assessment.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review doesn't employ a single "Asthma Score" number. Instead, it presents a fact-based analysis across several critical categories. We'll consider factors like:

* **Emergency Department (ED) Performance:** Wait times, staffing, and resources for acute asthma attacks.
* **Specialized Asthma Centers:** Presence of dedicated clinics, pulmonologists, and respiratory therapists.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring for asthma management.
* **Hospital Quality Ratings:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics reflecting overall patient care.
* **Accessibility:** Proximity to 23707, transportation options, and patient demographics served.

**Flagship Hospitals: Sentara Healthcare System**

Sentara Healthcare dominates the healthcare landscape in the region. Several of their hospitals are relevant to residents of the 23707 area.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital:** This is the flagship hospital for Sentara and is a major regional referral center. While located slightly outside the immediate vicinity of 23707, it's a significant option. It has a 4-star CMS rating, indicating a generally high level of quality. The ED at Sentara Norfolk General is well-equipped to handle severe asthma exacerbations. While specific ED wait times fluctuate, the hospital typically strives to maintain reasonable wait times. Sentara Norfolk General offers a robust pulmonary department, including pulmonologists and respiratory therapists experienced in asthma management. Telehealth services are available through Sentara, offering virtual consultations for asthma patients, which can be particularly helpful for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments.

**Sentara Obici Hospital:** Located in Suffolk, this hospital is closer to 23707 than Norfolk General. It has a 3-star CMS rating. The ED at Obici is designed to handle a range of medical emergencies, including asthma attacks. Wait times can vary, but the hospital strives to provide timely care. Obici offers pulmonary services, including specialists who can address asthma-related concerns. Telehealth services are available through Sentara, providing virtual access to specialists.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital:** Located in Norfolk, this hospital is also relatively accessible from 23707. It holds a 3-star CMS rating. The ED is equipped to handle asthma emergencies, and wait times are typically in line with regional averages. Sentara Leigh provides pulmonary care services. Telehealth options are available through the Sentara system.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, located in Portsmouth, is a key hospital for residents of 23707. It is a 3-star CMS rated hospital. The ED at Maryview is a critical resource for asthma patients in the area. ED wait times can fluctuate, but the hospital aims to provide prompt care. Maryview has a pulmonary department with pulmonologists and respiratory therapists. Telehealth services are increasingly available through Bon Secours, offering virtual consultations for asthma management.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the general ED and pulmonary services, some hospitals offer specialized asthma programs. These programs may include:

* **Asthma Clinics:** Dedicated clinics staffed by pulmonologists, nurses, and respiratory therapists, providing comprehensive asthma care.
* **Pulmonary Rehabilitation:** Programs designed to improve lung function and quality of life for individuals with chronic respiratory conditions, including asthma.
* **Pediatric Asthma Programs:** Specialized care for children with asthma, including education and support for families.

While specific details on the presence of these specialized programs fluctuate, it's essential to inquire directly with each hospital to determine their current offerings.

**Emergency Department Considerations**

When an asthma attack strikes, immediate access to quality emergency care is paramount. Key factors to consider in an ED include:

* **Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are crucial for timely treatment.
* **Staffing:** Availability of experienced physicians, nurses, and respiratory therapists.
* **Equipment:** Access to nebulizers, oxygen, and other essential equipment for asthma management.
* **Observation Units:** Some EDs have observation units where patients can be monitored for a period before discharge.

**Telehealth and Asthma Management**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in asthma care. Benefits include:

* **Convenience:** Virtual consultations eliminate the need for travel.
* **Accessibility:** Telehealth can connect patients with specialists regardless of location.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Some telehealth programs offer remote monitoring of lung function and symptoms.

When evaluating hospitals, inquire about their telehealth capabilities, including the availability of virtual appointments, remote monitoring options, and the types of specialists available through telehealth.

**Hospital Quality Ratings: CMS Star Ratings and Beyond**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. However, it's important to consider other quality metrics, such as:

* **Patient Satisfaction Scores:** These scores reflect patient experiences with care.
* **Readmission Rates:** Lower readmission rates for asthma indicate better disease management.
* **Hospital-Acquired Infection Rates:** Lower infection rates contribute to overall patient safety.

Researching these metrics can provide a more comprehensive picture of hospital quality.

**Accessibility and Patient Demographics**

Accessibility is a critical factor, especially during an asthma flare-up. Consider:

* **Proximity:** The closer the hospital, the quicker the access to care.
* **Transportation:** Availability of public transportation or other transportation options.
* **Patient Demographics:** Does the hospital serve a diverse patient population? Does it have resources to address the needs of specific populations, such as children or the elderly?

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for asthma care requires careful consideration. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near 23707. Consider the following steps:

1. **Research:** Review the information provided in this review and conduct additional research on each hospital.
2. **Contact Hospitals:** Contact the hospitals directly to inquire about their specific asthma services, ED wait times, telehealth capabilities, and specialized programs.
3. **Consider Your Needs:** Evaluate your individual needs and preferences, including your age, medical history, and insurance coverage.
4. **Consult Your Physician:** Discuss your options with your primary care physician or pulmonologist. They can provide personalized recommendations based on your medical history and needs.

By taking these steps, you can make an informed decision and ensure you have access to the best possible asthma care.