23890, Waverly, Virginia Asthma Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Asthma Score in 23890, Waverly, Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Asthma Score Review: Best Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23890**

Finding the right hospital for asthma care is crucial, especially during a flare-up. This review analyzes hospitals near the 23890 ZIP code (South Hill, Virginia, and surrounding areas) based on factors important to asthma patients, including quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options to help you make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Asthma Score Framework**

This review utilizes a modified "Asthma Score" framework, focusing on metrics directly relevant to asthma patients. These include: hospital quality ratings (CMS Star Ratings), ER wait times (a critical factor during acute asthma episodes), availability of pulmonology specialists, presence of dedicated asthma clinics, telehealth accessibility, and patient satisfaction scores. The goal is to provide a clear picture of each hospital's strengths and weaknesses in asthma care.

**The Landscape: Hospitals in and Around 23890**

The area around South Hill, Virginia, is primarily served by a network of hospitals, with varying levels of specialization and resources. Access to specialized asthma care can be limited in rural areas, making it essential to consider travel distance and available options.

**Flagship Hospital: VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (South Hill)**

VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital (CMH) in South Hill is the primary healthcare provider within the 23890 ZIP code. CMH is a critical access hospital, which means it receives additional federal funding to serve rural communities.

* **CMS Star Rating:** CMH currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, based on various metrics. While not the highest rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at CMH are a key consideration. While specific, real-time data fluctuates, local reports suggest wait times can vary. Contacting the hospital directly for current estimates is recommended, especially during peak hours.
* **Pulmonology Services:** CMH offers pulmonology services, including diagnosis and treatment of asthma. The availability of board-certified pulmonologists is crucial for comprehensive asthma management. Verify the number and availability of pulmonologists on staff.
* **Asthma Clinic:** CMH may not have a dedicated asthma clinic, but it offers asthma management within its pulmonology department. Inquire about specific asthma education programs and resources.
* **Telehealth:** CMH offers telehealth services, which can be beneficial for asthma patients, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management. Check the availability of telehealth appointments with pulmonologists or respiratory therapists.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are an important indicator of overall experience. Review patient feedback on CMH’s website or third-party platforms to gauge patient experiences.

**Regional Options: Exploring Hospitals Beyond South Hill**

For more specialized care or in cases of severe asthma exacerbations, patients may need to consider hospitals outside the immediate vicinity of 23890.

**Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital (South Boston, VA)**

Located approximately 30 minutes from South Hill, Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital offers another option.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times are an important consideration. Contact the hospital directly for the most current information.
* **Pulmonology Services:** Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital provides pulmonology services. Confirm the availability of board-certified pulmonologists.
* **Asthma Clinic:** Inquire about the availability of a dedicated asthma clinic or specific asthma management programs.
* **Telehealth:** Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital offers telehealth services. Check for telehealth appointments with pulmonologists or respiratory therapists.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Review patient satisfaction scores to assess the overall patient experience.

**Other Considerations: Travel Distance and Specialized Care**

Depending on the severity of the asthma and the need for specialized care, patients may need to consider hospitals further afield.

**VCU Health System (Richmond, VA)**

VCU Health System in Richmond (approximately 1.5-hour drive) offers a higher level of specialized care and is a major academic medical center.

* **CMS Star Rating:** VCU Health System has multiple hospitals within its network, with varying CMS star ratings. Research the specific ratings of the hospitals you may visit within the system.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times can be longer at larger hospitals like VCU Health System. Check current wait times before heading to the ER.
* **Pulmonology Services:** VCU Health System has a robust pulmonology department with a wide range of specialists.
* **Asthma Clinic:** VCU Health System may offer specialized asthma clinics or programs.
* **Telehealth:** VCU Health System offers extensive telehealth services.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction scores are available.

**Factors to Consider for Asthma Patients**

* **Proximity:** During an asthma attack, every minute counts. Proximity to a hospital with emergency services is paramount.
* **ER Wait Times:** Long wait times can be detrimental during an asthma flare-up.
* **Pulmonologist Availability:** Access to a board-certified pulmonologist is critical for diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing management.
* **Asthma Education:** Hospitals that offer asthma education programs can empower patients to manage their condition effectively.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can facilitate convenient follow-up appointments and medication management.
* **Patient Reviews:** Reading patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient experience.

**Conclusion: Choosing the Right Hospital**

For residents of the 23890 ZIP code, VCU Health Community Memorial Hospital is the primary local option. However, the availability of specialized care and the potential for longer wait times warrant consideration of regional hospitals like Sentara Halifax Regional Hospital and, for more complex cases, VCU Health System in Richmond.

Prioritize proximity, ER wait times, and the availability of pulmonology services when choosing a hospital. Contact the hospitals directly to confirm current wait times, the availability of specialists, and the availability of asthma-specific programs. Consider telehealth options for convenient follow-up care. By carefully evaluating these factors, asthma patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs and ensure they receive the best possible care. This review provides a starting point for your research; always consult with your primary care physician or pulmonologist for personalized recommendations.