23889, Warfield, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23889, Warfield, Virginia is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Asthma Score: Navigating Asthma Care Near ZIP Code 23889

Finding the right healthcare for asthma can be a complex undertaking, especially when considering factors like specialized care, accessibility, and wait times. This review delves into the landscape of asthma care options near ZIP code 23889 (Suffolk, Virginia), examining key hospitals and their offerings, along with relevant data to help patients make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The area surrounding Suffolk, Virginia, is served by a variety of hospitals, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in asthma care. Proximity, specialized services, and overall hospital performance are crucial considerations. This review will analyze the key players, focusing on publicly available data to provide a comprehensive assessment.

**Sentara Obici Hospital (Suffolk, VA): A Local Hub**

Sentara Obici Hospital, located directly within ZIP code 23889, is a primary point of access for healthcare services in the area. While not a flagship facility with extensive specialized asthma programs, it provides essential services for acute asthma exacerbations.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Obici Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, considering factors like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.
* **Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:** ER wait times are a critical factor for asthma patients experiencing breathing difficulties. While specific wait time data fluctuates, patients should anticipate potential delays, especially during peak hours. It's crucial to utilize the hospital's website or call ahead to check current wait times.
* **Asthma-Specific Services:** Obici Hospital offers standard emergency care for asthma, including bronchodilator treatments and oxygen therapy. However, it may not have a dedicated asthma center or specialized pulmonologists readily available.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Sentara Healthcare, the parent organization of Obici Hospital, has expanded its telehealth offerings. Patients can potentially access virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists, including pulmonologists, depending on availability and insurance coverage. This can be a valuable tool for follow-up care and medication management.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News, VA): A Regional Leader**

Located approximately 30 miles east of Suffolk, Riverside Regional Medical Center in Newport News offers a broader range of specialized services, potentially making it a strong option for patients with complex asthma needs.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Riverside Regional Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** ER wait times can vary, and patients should check current conditions before traveling.
* **Specialty Centers:** Riverside has a well-regarded pulmonary department, which may offer more specialized care for asthma, including access to pulmonologists with expertise in asthma management.
* **Telehealth:** Riverside Health System, similar to Sentara, has invested in telehealth capabilities, providing opportunities for virtual appointments and remote monitoring.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center (Portsmouth, VA): Another Option**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center, located in Portsmouth, is another hospital option within reasonable driving distance of Suffolk.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Maryview Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **ER Wait Times:** As with other hospitals, patients should check real-time wait times before heading to the ER.
* **Asthma-Specific Services:** Maryview provides standard emergency care for asthma exacerbations.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Bon Secours Mercy Health offers telehealth services, which could provide convenient access to care.

**Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) (Norfolk, VA): Pediatric Focus**

For children with asthma, Children's Hospital of The King's Daughters (CHKD) in Norfolk, approximately 40 miles east of Suffolk, is a critical resource.

* **Specialized Pediatric Care:** CHKD is a dedicated children's hospital with a comprehensive pediatric pulmonary department specializing in asthma.
* **Asthma Center:** CHKD has an asthma center that offers specialized care, including asthma education, management plans, and access to pediatric pulmonologists.
* **ER Wait Times:** CHKD's ER wait times can be variable, particularly during peak seasons for respiratory illnesses.
* **Telehealth Availability:** CHKD offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with pediatric specialists.

**Analyzing the Data and Making Choices**

When selecting an asthma care provider, several factors must be considered.

* **Severity of Asthma:** Patients with mild, intermittent asthma may find adequate care at Sentara Obici Hospital or other local urgent care facilities. Those with moderate to severe asthma, or those requiring specialized care, may benefit from visiting Riverside Regional Medical Center or CHKD.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Consider travel time and ease of access, especially during an asthma emergency.
* **Specialized Services:** Patients with complex asthma conditions should prioritize hospitals with dedicated pulmonary departments or asthma centers.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for routine check-ups, medication management, and education.

**Key Considerations Beyond the Hospitals**

* **Primary Care Physician (PCP):** Your PCP plays a crucial role in managing your asthma. Ensure your PCP is knowledgeable about asthma and can provide appropriate referrals to specialists when necessary.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that your insurance plan covers services at the chosen hospital and any associated specialists.
* **Asthma Action Plan:** Develop a personalized asthma action plan with your doctor, outlining steps to take during an asthma exacerbation.
* **Medication Adherence:** Take your prescribed medications as directed to control your asthma symptoms.
* **Asthma Triggers:** Identify and avoid your asthma triggers, such as allergens, irritants, and respiratory infections.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near ZIP code 23889 offers a range of options for asthma care. Sentara Obici Hospital provides local access to emergency services, while Riverside Regional Medical Center and Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center offer more specialized care. For pediatric patients, CHKD is a critical resource. By carefully evaluating these factors and considering individual needs, patients can navigate the healthcare system and find the best possible care for their asthma. Remember to consult with your physician to determine the best treatment plan.