13696, West Stockholm, New York Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 13696, West Stockholm, New York is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13696

Navigating the complexities of hypertension management requires access to quality healthcare. For residents near ZIP code 13696 (Watertown, New York), understanding the available resources is crucial. This review examines hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on their capabilities in treating hypertension, including their performance metrics, specialized services, and accessibility.

**Carthage Area Hospital: A Community Anchor**

Carthage Area Hospital, located approximately 20 miles southwest of Watertown, serves as a vital community hospital. While not a flagship institution, it provides essential services, including primary care and emergency care. Their focus is on providing accessible healthcare to the local population. Carthage Area Hospital’s CMS star rating is currently unavailable, so patients should confirm current ratings. ER wait times are generally shorter than those at larger hospitals, but exact figures fluctuate. The hospital offers a range of diagnostic tools, including blood pressure monitoring, and can initiate hypertension treatment plans. Telehealth capabilities are evolving, so confirm availability of remote consultations with primary care physicians.

**Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center: A Regional Player**

Claxton-Hepburn Medical Center in Ogdensburg, roughly 40 miles north of Watertown, presents a more comprehensive healthcare option. This hospital, serving a broader regional population, provides a wider array of specialties. Claxton-Hepburn’s CMS star rating is currently unavailable, so patients should confirm current ratings. The hospital’s emergency department offers 24/7 care, but wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. They have a cardiology department that is crucial for hypertension patients, offering specialized care for heart-related complications. Telehealth services are available, including remote monitoring of blood pressure and medication management consultations.

**Samaritan Medical Center: Watertown's Core**

Samaritan Medical Center, located directly in Watertown (ZIP code 13601), is the most accessible option for residents of 13696. It is the largest hospital in the immediate area and a major regional healthcare provider. Samaritan Medical Center’s CMS star rating is currently unavailable, so patients should confirm current ratings. The hospital’s emergency department is well-equipped to handle hypertension-related emergencies. ER wait times vary, but are generally longer than at smaller facilities. The hospital offers a comprehensive cardiology department with specialized expertise in managing hypertension and its associated cardiovascular risks. This includes access to cardiologists, diagnostic imaging (echocardiograms, stress tests), and interventional procedures. Samaritan Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations with cardiologists, remote blood pressure monitoring programs, and medication management support.

**Key Considerations for Hypertension Patients**

Selecting the right hospital for hypertension care involves several critical factors. The availability of a dedicated cardiology department is paramount. Cardiologists possess specialized knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating hypertension and its complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. Access to advanced diagnostic tools, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, is also essential for evaluating the impact of hypertension on the cardiovascular system.

**Emergency Room Access: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room access is another significant consideration. Hypertension can lead to hypertensive crises, requiring immediate medical attention. Shorter ER wait times can be crucial in these situations. Patients should familiarize themselves with the ER wait times at each hospital, which can be found on hospital websites or through online resources.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in managing hypertension. Remote blood pressure monitoring allows patients to track their readings at home and share them with their healthcare providers. Virtual consultations with physicians can provide convenient access to medication management and lifestyle advice. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the risk of complications.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general cardiology, some hospitals offer specialized programs for hypertension management. These programs may include:

* **Hypertension Clinics:** Dedicated clinics staffed by specialists who focus exclusively on hypertension care.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs:** Programs that help patients recover from heart-related events and improve their overall cardiovascular health.
* **Diabetes Management Programs:** Hypertension often coexists with diabetes, and specialized programs can address both conditions simultaneously.

**Navigating the Healthcare System**

Patients with hypertension should actively participate in their care. This includes:

* **Regular Checkups:** Schedule regular appointments with a primary care physician or cardiologist to monitor blood pressure and adjust medications as needed.
* **Medication Adherence:** Take medications as prescribed and report any side effects to your healthcare provider.
* **Lifestyle Modifications:** Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques.
* **Patient Education:** Seek information about hypertension from reliable sources, such as the American Heart Association or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

**Hospital Comparison: A Quick Guide**

| Hospital | Location | CMS Star Rating | Cardiology Dept. | ER Wait Times | Telehealth |
| :-------------------------- | :----------------- | :-------------- | :--------------- | :------------ | :--------- |
| Carthage Area Hospital | Carthage, NY | Unavailable | Yes | Shorter | Evolving |
| Claxton-Hepburn Med. Center | Ogdensburg, NY | Unavailable | Yes | Variable | Available |
| Samaritan Medical Center | Watertown, NY | Unavailable | Yes | Longer | Available |

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care is a personal decision. Residents near ZIP code 13696 have access to several options, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Samaritan Medical Center, being the largest and closest, offers the most comprehensive services. Claxton-Hepburn provides a broader range of specialties. Carthage Area Hospital serves as a crucial community resource. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and select the hospital that best meets their individual needs. Remember to always verify the most up-to-date information, including CMS star ratings and ER wait times, directly with the hospitals before making any healthcare decisions.