13757, East Meredith, New York Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 13757, East Meredith, New York is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 13757

Navigating the healthcare landscape, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review focuses on hospitals proximate to ZIP code 13757 (Oneonta, NY), providing a fact-rich overview to aid in selecting the best care options. The information is gathered from publicly available sources, including the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reputable healthcare data providers. It's crucial to remember that this is a snapshot in time, and specific circumstances may change. Always verify information with the hospitals directly.

**Flagship Institutions and CMS Star Ratings**

The closest major hospital serving the Oneonta area is **Bassett Medical Center** in Cooperstown, NY, roughly a 30-minute drive. Bassett Medical Center is a large, regional referral center. It is part of the Bassett Healthcare Network, encompassing several hospitals and clinics. It is a teaching hospital, affiliated with Columbia University. As of the latest CMS data, Bassett Medical Center holds a **four-star rating**. This rating considers various factors, including patient experience, readmission rates, mortality rates, safety of care, and timely and effective care. While not a perfect measure, a four-star rating suggests a generally good performance compared to national averages.

**Specialized Hypertension Care and Cardiology Services**

Bassett Medical Center offers comprehensive cardiology services, critical for hypertension management. They have a dedicated cardiology department, including specialists in hypertension, heart failure, and interventional cardiology. They provide services such as diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests), medication management, and interventional procedures (angioplasty, stent placement). The hospital's website details the availability of these services and the expertise of their cardiology team.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Access to Care**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, particularly during hypertensive crises. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, data indicates that Bassett Medical Center generally strives to maintain reasonable ER wait times. Publicly available data, such as that provided by Healthgrades or other similar platforms, can offer insights into average wait times. However, it's essential to remember that these are averages and can vary significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the cases presenting to the ER. It is advisable to call the hospital's ER directly to inquire about current wait times if immediate medical attention is needed.

**Telehealth Capabilities and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Bassett Medical Center has expanded its telehealth capabilities. They offer virtual visits for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits. The hospital's website provides information on the telehealth platform used, the types of services available, and how to schedule a virtual appointment. Remote patient monitoring programs, where patients can track their blood pressure and other vital signs at home and share the data with their healthcare providers, are also increasingly common. Inquire directly with Bassett Medical Center about the availability of remote monitoring programs for hypertension patients.

**Other Hospitals and Healthcare Options**

While Bassett Medical Center is the primary regional hospital, other healthcare options exist in the vicinity. **A.O. Fox Hospital** in Oneonta, NY, is a smaller community hospital that may be a good option for certain services. A.O. Fox Hospital is part of the Bassett Healthcare Network. However, it typically has fewer specialized services than Bassett Medical Center. It is essential to assess the scope of services and expertise available at each facility to determine the best fit for your needs.

**Outpatient Clinics and Primary Care Physicians**

Hypertension management often begins with primary care physicians. Numerous primary care practices operate in the Oneonta area. These practices are crucial for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and referrals to specialists if needed. When selecting a primary care physician, inquire about their experience with hypertension management, their access to specialists, and their use of technology for patient communication and monitoring.

**Pharmacy Services and Medication Access**

Access to medications is critical for hypertension control. Several pharmacies operate in the Oneonta area, including national chains and independent pharmacies. Ensure that your chosen pharmacy carries the medications prescribed by your physician and offers convenient services such as prescription refills, medication counseling, and automatic refills.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is an essential aspect of healthcare quality. Review patient satisfaction scores and read online reviews of hospitals and physicians. Websites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and the CMS Hospital Compare website provide patient satisfaction data. However, remember that these reviews are subjective and may not always reflect the full picture.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

Healthcare costs can be a significant concern. Before receiving care, confirm that your insurance plan covers the services you need and understand your out-of-pocket costs. Hospitals and physician practices should provide estimates of costs upon request.

**Research and Clinical Trials**

Bassett Medical Center is involved in research and clinical trials. Research studies can provide access to cutting-edge treatments and therapies. Inquire with the hospital's cardiology department about any ongoing clinical trials related to hypertension.

**Specific Considerations for Hypertension Patients**

For individuals with hypertension, several factors are particularly important when choosing a hospital or healthcare provider. These include:

* **Cardiology Expertise:** A strong cardiology department with specialists in hypertension is essential.
* **Access to Diagnostic Testing:** Rapid access to EKGs, echocardiograms, and other diagnostic tests is critical.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth services can improve access to care and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.
* **Medication Management:** The ability to receive medication refills and counseling is crucial.
* **Emergency Room Access:** Efficient ER services are important during hypertensive crises.

**Conclusion**

For residents of ZIP code 13757, **Bassett Medical Center** emerges as the primary regional healthcare provider, offering a comprehensive range of cardiology services and a four-star CMS rating. While other healthcare options exist, Bassett Medical Center's specialized expertise and resources make it a strong choice for hypertension management. However, always consider individual needs, insurance coverage, and patient preferences when making healthcare decisions. Thorough research, direct communication with hospitals and providers, and a proactive approach to health are essential for successful hypertension management. Remember to stay informed about the latest developments in hypertension care and to consult with your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan.