13697, Winthrop, New York Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 13697, Winthrop, New York is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 13697

The residents of ZIP code 13697, encompassing the vibrant city of Watertown, New York, have access to a range of healthcare options. This review focuses on evaluating the hospitals near this area, specifically concerning hypertension management, a critical health concern. We'll delve into factors relevant to hypertension care, including hospital quality metrics, specialty services, and accessibility, to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Understanding the Stakes: Hypertension and the North Country**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a significant public health issue, often referred to as the "silent killer." It can lead to severe complications like heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. The North Country, including Jefferson County where Watertown is located, faces unique challenges related to healthcare access and the prevalence of chronic conditions. This review aims to empower residents with information to make informed decisions about their healthcare, particularly regarding hypertension management.

**Key Hospitals in the Watertown Area: A Comparative Overview**

The primary hospital serving Watertown and the surrounding area is **Samaritan Medical Center**, a major healthcare provider in the region. It's crucial to understand its capabilities and limitations.

**Samaritan Medical Center:**

Samaritan Medical Center, the flagship hospital in Watertown, is a 290-bed facility. As of the latest publicly available data, it holds a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates a hospital that is "average," it is important to note that CMS ratings are just one metric and should be considered alongside other factors.

**Hypertension-Specific Services at Samaritan:**

Samaritan Medical Center offers a range of services relevant to hypertension management. They have a cardiology department that provides comprehensive care, including diagnostic testing like echocardiograms and stress tests, as well as interventional cardiology procedures. The hospital also offers a dedicated cardiac rehabilitation program to help patients manage their condition and improve their overall health.

**Emergency Room (ER) Wait Times:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor in accessing timely care, especially during a hypertensive crisis. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times at Samaritan Medical Center can fluctuate. It's advisable to check real-time wait times using online resources or by calling the hospital directly, particularly if experiencing severe symptoms.

**Specialty Centers and Resources:**

Samaritan Medical Center has several specialty centers that can be beneficial for hypertension patients. The hospital's **cardiology department** is the primary resource for managing hypertension-related conditions. The hospital also has a **diabetes center**, as diabetes often co-exists with hypertension, and comprehensive care is essential.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. Samaritan Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years, offering virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. This can be beneficial for hypertension patients, allowing for convenient follow-up appointments and medication management. However, the specific availability of telehealth services for hypertension management should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Other Considerations:**

**Hospital Staffing:** The availability of qualified medical professionals, including cardiologists, nurses, and support staff, is critical for quality care. Patients should inquire about the experience and credentials of the healthcare providers they will be seeing.

**Patient Satisfaction:** Patient satisfaction surveys provide valuable insights into the patient experience. The Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HCAHPS) survey results, available on the CMS website, offer a glimpse into patient perceptions of the hospital's care and services.

**Accessibility and Location:**

Samaritan Medical Center is centrally located in Watertown, making it accessible to most residents of the 13697 ZIP code. However, transportation challenges can exist for some individuals, and patients should consider their ability to access the hospital for appointments and follow-up care.

**Beyond Samaritan: Exploring Alternatives**

While Samaritan Medical Center is the primary hospital in the area, residents may have options for specialized care or second opinions.

**Out-of-Area Options:**

For specialized care or access to cutting-edge treatments, residents may consider hospitals located outside of Watertown. However, this often involves longer travel times.

**The University Hospital at Upstate Medical University (Syracuse, NY):**

Located approximately 70 miles from Watertown, Upstate Medical University is a major academic medical center. This hospital offers a wider range of specialized services, including advanced cardiology and cardiovascular surgery. Upstate Medical University holds a **4-star CMS rating**. Patients seeking specialized care for complex hypertension cases might consider this option.

**Crouse Hospital (Syracuse, NY):**

Crouse Hospital, also in Syracuse, is another major healthcare provider, with a focus on cardiac care. It also holds a **4-star CMS rating**.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape: Key Questions to Ask**

When choosing a hospital or healthcare provider for hypertension management, patients should ask specific questions:

* **What is the hospital's experience in treating hypertension and related conditions?**
* **What diagnostic and treatment options are available?**
* **Does the hospital offer a dedicated hypertension clinic or program?**
* **What are the ER wait times?**
* **What telehealth services are available for hypertension management?**
* **What are the credentials and experience of the cardiologists and other healthcare providers?**
* **What is the hospital's patient satisfaction rating?**

**The Importance of Proactive Hypertension Management**

Effective hypertension management requires a proactive approach, including regular monitoring of blood pressure, lifestyle modifications (such as diet and exercise), and medication adherence. Choosing the right healthcare provider is a crucial step in this process.

**Conclusion: Empowering Informed Decisions**

For residents of ZIP code 13697, Samaritan Medical Center is the primary hospital option. However, residents should consider the hospital's CMS rating, specialty services, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities. For more specialized care, the University Hospital at Upstate Medical University or Crouse Hospital in Syracuse may be considered. By asking the right questions and understanding the available resources, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and effectively manage their hypertension. This review provides a starting point for this critical journey.