12917, Burke, New York Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 12917, Burke, New York is 33 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 12917

Finding the right healthcare for hypertension management is crucial. Residents near ZIP code 12917, encompassing the town of Au Sable Forks, New York, have a range of options, from local clinics to regional hospitals. This review provides a fact-rich overview of available resources, focusing on key metrics relevant to hypertension care.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The Adirondack region, where 12917 is located, presents unique healthcare challenges. Rural populations often face longer travel times and limited access to specialized services. This review will highlight both the strengths and potential limitations of the healthcare options available to residents in this area.

**Focus on Key Metrics:**

This analysis prioritizes factors directly impacting hypertension care. These include hospital quality ratings (CMS Star Ratings), emergency room wait times (a proxy for overall hospital efficiency), availability of specialized cardiology services, and the integration of telehealth options.

**Flagship Hospital: University of Vermont Health Network – Elizabethtown Community Hospital (ECH)**

ECH, located in Elizabethtown, NY (approximately 20 miles from Au Sable Forks), is a critical access hospital serving the region. While not a large tertiary center, it plays a vital role in providing essential healthcare services. CMS data provides the most recent rating for this hospital.

ECH’s cardiology services are a key consideration for hypertension patients. While ECH may not have a dedicated cardiology department like larger hospitals, it likely offers access to visiting cardiologists and telemedicine consultations.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth is increasingly important, especially in rural areas. ECH likely utilizes telehealth platforms for cardiology consultations, medication management, and patient education. The extent of telehealth integration, including the types of services offered and patient satisfaction data, is crucial for assessing its effectiveness.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a significant indicator of hospital efficiency. While specific wait time data for ECH is not publicly available, the hospital's commitment to providing timely care is paramount.

**Other Considerations for ECH:**

* **Access to Specialists:** ECH relies on partnerships with larger hospitals, like the UVM Medical Center, for specialized cardiology services. The ease of referral and coordination of care are important.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient feedback on their experience with hypertension management, including communication, medication management, and follow-up care, is essential.

**Regional Alternatives: Exploring Options Beyond Elizabethtown**

Residents near 12917 have options that extend beyond ECH. These options include hospitals in Plattsburgh, NY, and Burlington, VT.

**University of Vermont Medical Center (Burlington, VT): A Tertiary Care Center**

The UVM Medical Center, approximately a two-hour drive from Au Sable Forks, is a major tertiary care center. It offers a comprehensive cardiology department, including specialists in hypertension management, interventional cardiology, and electrophysiology.

**CMS Star Rating:** The UVM Medical Center has a CMS Star Rating that reflects its overall quality of care. This rating is based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**Cardiology Services at UVM Medical Center:**

The UVM Medical Center's cardiology department is a significant asset for hypertension patients. It offers a wide range of services, including:

* **Specialized Hypertension Clinics:** These clinics provide comprehensive evaluation and management of hypertension, including medication adjustments and lifestyle counseling.
* **Advanced Diagnostic Testing:** The hospital has advanced imaging capabilities, such as echocardiography, cardiac MRI, and cardiac CT scans, to assess heart health.
* **Interventional Cardiology:** For patients with complications from hypertension, such as coronary artery disease, the hospital offers interventional procedures, such as angioplasty and stenting.

**Telehealth at UVM Medical Center:**

The UVM Medical Center has invested heavily in telehealth. It offers virtual consultations with cardiologists, remote monitoring of blood pressure, and patient education programs. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care for patients in rural areas.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

The UVM Medical Center's ER typically has longer wait times than smaller hospitals. However, the hospital is committed to providing timely care and has implemented strategies to improve efficiency.

**Other Considerations for UVM Medical Center:**

* **Travel Distance:** The two-hour drive to Burlington can be a barrier for some patients.
* **Specialty Access:** The hospital's specialty clinics may have longer wait times for appointments.
* **Cost:** The cost of care at a tertiary care center is typically higher than at a community hospital.

**Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (Plattsburgh, NY): A Closer Option**

Champlain Valley Physicians Hospital (CVPH) in Plattsburgh, NY, is a closer option, approximately a 45-minute drive from Au Sable Forks. It offers a range of services, including cardiology.

**CMS Star Rating:** CVPH has a CMS Star Rating, reflecting its overall quality of care.

**Cardiology Services at CVPH:**

CVPH's cardiology department provides a range of services, including:

* **General Cardiology:** Evaluation and management of various heart conditions.
* **Interventional Cardiology:** Procedures such as angioplasty and stenting.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** A program to help patients recover from heart events.

**Telehealth at CVPH:**

CVPH likely utilizes telehealth for cardiology consultations and patient education. The extent of its telehealth integration should be assessed.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times at CVPH should be considered.

**Other Considerations for CVPH:**

* **Proximity:** The shorter travel distance to Plattsburgh makes CVPH more accessible for many residents.
* **Specialty Access:** The hospital offers a range of specialty services, including cardiology.
* **Referral Network:** The hospital has established referral networks with other healthcare providers.

**Evaluating Hypertension Management: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension management, several factors should be considered:

* **Cardiology Expertise:** The availability of experienced cardiologists specializing in hypertension management is crucial.
* **Access to Diagnostic Testing:** Access to advanced imaging and other diagnostic tests is essential for accurate diagnosis and monitoring.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.
* **Patient Education and Support:** Hospitals should offer patient education programs and support services to help patients manage their condition.
* **Medication Management:** The hospital should have a system for managing medications and ensuring patients receive the correct dosages.
* **Follow-up Care:** The hospital should provide regular follow-up appointments and monitoring to ensure patients' blood pressure is under control.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient satisfaction with their care is an important indicator of quality.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Residents near ZIP code 12917 have a choice of hospitals for hypertension management. ECH provides local access, while CVPH and UVM Medical Center offer more comprehensive cardiology services. The best choice depends on individual needs, preferences, and access to transportation.

**Recommendations:**

* **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and recommendations.
* **Research Hospital Ratings:** Review CMS Star Ratings and other quality indicators.
* **Inquire About Telehealth Options:** Ask about telehealth services and how they can improve access to care.
* **Consider Travel Distance:** Factor in travel time when choosing a hospital.
* **Assess Patient Satisfaction:** Read patient reviews and talk to other patients about their experiences.
* **Prioritize Communication:** Choose a hospital where you feel comfortable communicating with your healthcare providers.

By carefully considering these factors, residents near 12917 can make an informed decision about their hypertension care and improve their overall health.