11550, Hempstead, New York Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 11550, Hempstead, New York is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 11550

Living near ZIP Code 11550, encompassing the heart of Levittown, New York, means access to a diverse range of healthcare options. This review focuses on the critical aspect of hypertension management, assessing the quality of care available at nearby hospitals, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare needs, particularly concerning this silent killer.

**The Landscape of Hypertension:**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a pervasive health concern, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious conditions. Effective management requires consistent monitoring, lifestyle adjustments, and often, medication. The quality of care provided by local hospitals, including their ability to diagnose, treat, and educate patients on hypertension, is paramount.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

One of the primary indicators of hospital quality is the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star rating. This rating system, based on a variety of metrics, provides a readily accessible snapshot of overall hospital performance. Unfortunately, the immediate vicinity of 11550 doesn't boast a plethora of hospitals with high CMS star ratings.

**North Shore University Hospital (Manhasset):** Located a reasonable distance from Levittown, North Shore University Hospital is a flagship hospital within the Northwell Health system. It consistently receives high marks and is generally considered a top-tier facility. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, North Shore University Hospital typically performs well, reflecting its commitment to quality care. This hospital is known for its advanced cardiac care, including specialized centers for heart failure and arrhythmia management, which are crucial for hypertension-related complications.

**St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center (Roslyn):** Another highly regarded hospital within a drivable distance, St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center, is a specialized cardiac center. It consistently receives high ratings and is frequently recognized for its excellence in cardiovascular care. This hospital's focus on heart health makes it a particularly strong choice for hypertension patients, offering comprehensive services from diagnosis to complex interventions.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

When dealing with a potential hypertensive crisis, timely access to emergency care is crucial. Long wait times can exacerbate the situation.

**North Shore University Hospital:** While known for its high quality, North Shore University Hospital's ER wait times can vary. Data from sources like ProPublica and the CMS Hospital Compare website should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Generally, patients should anticipate a reasonable wait, but it's always wise to check current conditions, especially during peak hours.

**St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center:** Given its specialized focus, St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center's ER wait times are often a bit shorter than those of general hospitals, especially for cardiac-related emergencies. However, this can fluctuate. Checking real-time wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER is always recommended.

**Other Nearby Hospitals:**

Several other hospitals are accessible from 11550, each with its own strengths and weaknesses.

**Long Island Jewish Medical Center (New Hyde Park):** Part of the Northwell Health system, Long Island Jewish Medical Center offers a comprehensive range of services. It's important to check its current CMS star rating and ER wait times. This hospital often has robust cardiology services.

**South Nassau Communities Hospital (Oceanside):** South Nassau Communities Hospital is another option, offering a range of services to the local community. Its CMS star rating and ER wait times should be considered when assessing its suitability for hypertension care.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management:**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized centers dedicated to cardiovascular health is crucial. These centers often provide advanced diagnostic tools, specialized treatment options, and a multidisciplinary approach to patient care.

**North Shore University Hospital:** Boasts a comprehensive cardiology department, including specialized centers for heart failure and arrhythmia management. These centers are well-equipped to handle complex cases related to hypertension.

**St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center:** This hospital's primary focus is cardiovascular care, making it a leading choice for hypertension patients. It offers a full spectrum of services, from preventative care to advanced interventions.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Remote monitoring allows physicians to track patients' blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and overall health status from a distance.

**Northwell Health:** The Northwell Health system, including North Shore University Hospital and Long Island Jewish Medical Center, has invested heavily in telehealth capabilities. They often offer virtual visits, remote monitoring programs, and online patient portals to facilitate communication and care management.

**St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center:** While specializing in in-person care, St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center may also offer telehealth options, particularly for follow-up appointments and medication management. Patients should inquire about telehealth services when scheduling appointments.

**Finding a Primary Care Physician (PCP):**

The cornerstone of hypertension management is a strong relationship with a primary care physician. Your PCP will monitor your blood pressure, prescribe medications, and provide guidance on lifestyle modifications.

**Northwell Health Physician Partners:** Northwell Health has a large network of primary care physicians throughout the region. Finding a PCP affiliated with Northwell can provide seamless access to the system's hospitals and specialists.

**Catholic Health Physician Practices:** Catholic Health also has a network of primary care physicians in the area.

**The Importance of Patient Education:**

Effective hypertension management relies heavily on patient education. Hospitals and healthcare providers should provide patients with information about their condition, treatment options, and lifestyle modifications. This includes education on diet, exercise, stress management, and medication adherence.

**North Shore University Hospital and St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center:** Both hospitals typically have patient education programs and resources available to help patients understand and manage their hypertension.

**The Role of Lifestyle Modifications:**

Lifestyle changes are crucial for managing hypertension. These include:

* **Diet:** Following a DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
* **Exercise:** Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking or jogging.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight.
* **Stress Reduction:** Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as yoga or meditation.
* **Limiting Alcohol Consumption:** Moderating alcohol intake.
* **Quitting Smoking:** Smoking significantly increases the risk of hypertension and heart disease.

**Accessing Information and Making Informed Decisions:**

The information provided in this review is intended to be a starting point for your research. It's essential to gather information from multiple sources, including:

* **Hospital Websites:** Visit the websites of the hospitals mentioned above for detailed information about their services, physicians, and patient resources.
* **CMS Hospital Compare:** Utilize the CMS Hospital Compare website to access hospital ratings, quality data, and patient satisfaction scores.
* **ProPublica:** Explore ProPublica's database for information on hospital safety and quality.
* **Physician Directories:** Use online physician directories to find doctors in your area and read patient reviews.
* **Consult with Your Insurance Provider:** Contact your insurance provider to determine which hospitals and physicians are in your network.

**Conclusion:**

Residents of 11550 have access to a range of healthcare options for hypertension management. While the immediate area may not have a hospital with a top-tier CMS star rating, nearby facilities like North Shore University Hospital and St. Francis Hospital & Heart Center offer high-quality care, particularly in cardiology. The availability of specialized centers, telehealth services, and a strong network of primary care physicians further enhances the options available. By conducting thorough research, consulting with healthcare professionals, and actively participating in their care, residents can effectively manage their hypertension and improve their overall health. Remember to prioritize timely access to care, especially during a hypertensive crisis, and to proactively monitor your blood pressure and follow your doctor's recommendations.