44514, Youngstown, Ohio Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 44514, Youngstown, Ohio is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare for High Blood Pressure Near 44514

Living with hypertension requires vigilant management, and access to quality healthcare is paramount. This review analyzes hospital options near the 44514 ZIP code, focusing on factors crucial for hypertension patients: comprehensive care, specialist availability, patient outcomes, and accessibility. We'll delve into hospital profiles, considering CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and other relevant data to provide a clear picture of available resources.

**Defining the Scope: The 44514 Landscape**

The 44514 ZIP code, encompassing areas around Boardman, Ohio, provides a specific geographical focus for this analysis. The healthcare landscape in this region is primarily served by hospitals in the Youngstown metropolitan area, offering a range of services.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

**Mercy Health – St. Elizabeth Youngstown Hospital:** This hospital, a major player in the region, is a crucial point of reference. While specific CMS star ratings can fluctuate, it's essential to check the most current data on the CMS website ([https://www.medicare.gov/](https://www.medicare.gov/)) to assess overall quality. St. Elizabeth Youngstown typically offers a comprehensive cardiology program, a vital asset for hypertension patients. Look for details on their heart failure clinic, which often provides specialized care for related conditions. Examine their emergency room wait times, as prolonged waits can be detrimental during hypertensive crises. These times are usually available on hospital websites or through platforms like Google Maps. Telehealth services, increasingly important for chronic disease management, are another key consideration. Check if St. Elizabeth Youngstown offers virtual appointments for cardiology or primary care, allowing for convenient follow-ups and medication adjustments.

**Humility of Mary Health Partners (HMHP):** HMHP operates several facilities in the area, including St. Joseph Warren Hospital, a major healthcare provider in the region. CMS star ratings should be verified directly from the CMS website. Evaluate the hospital's cardiology department, including the availability of interventional cardiologists and the frequency of procedures like angioplasty and stenting, which are relevant for patients with hypertension-related complications. Investigate the hospital's outpatient services, particularly those focused on cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle modification programs. These programs can play a critical role in managing hypertension through exercise, diet, and stress reduction. Telehealth options are also important; check for virtual consultations with cardiologists or primary care physicians.

**Other Important Considerations: Specialty Centers and Resources**

Beyond flagship hospitals, consider specialized centers and resources that can support hypertension management.

**Heart Failure Clinics:** Many hospitals offer dedicated heart failure clinics. These clinics provide specialized care for patients with heart failure, often a complication of uncontrolled hypertension. They typically involve a multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, nurses, and dietitians, to provide comprehensive management.

**Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs:** Cardiac rehabilitation programs are crucial for patients recovering from heart attacks, heart surgery, or other cardiac events, including those related to hypertension. These programs typically involve supervised exercise, education, and counseling to help patients improve their heart health and manage their risk factors.

**Endocrinology Services:** Hypertension can sometimes be related to underlying endocrine disorders, such as hyperthyroidism or Cushing's syndrome. Access to endocrinology services is essential for diagnosing and treating these conditions.

**Nephrology Services:** Kidney disease is a common complication of hypertension. Access to nephrology services is crucial for patients with kidney problems.

**Telehealth: The Modern Approach**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Look for hospitals that offer telehealth services, including:

* **Virtual appointments:** These allow patients to consult with their doctors remotely, saving time and travel.
* **Remote monitoring:** Some hospitals offer remote monitoring programs that allow patients to track their blood pressure and other vital signs at home, with the data being transmitted to their healthcare providers.
* **Educational resources:** Many hospitals offer online educational resources, such as videos and articles, to help patients learn about hypertension and how to manage it.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration for hypertension patients, especially during hypertensive crises. Prolonged waits can lead to complications and potentially worsen outcomes. Research the average wait times at hospitals near 44514, using sources like hospital websites, Google Maps, and independent healthcare rating websites.

**Patient Outcomes: The Bottom Line**

Patient outcomes are the ultimate measure of hospital quality. While it's difficult to get granular data on specific hypertension outcomes, look for hospitals that:

* **Have low readmission rates for heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions.**
* **Report high patient satisfaction scores.**
* **Participate in quality improvement initiatives related to hypertension management.**

**Accessibility: Beyond the Hospital Walls**

Accessibility extends beyond the physical location of a hospital. Consider:

* **Transportation:** Is the hospital easily accessible by public transportation or car?
* **Insurance:** Does the hospital accept your insurance plan?
* **Language services:** Does the hospital offer language services for non-English speakers?
* **Appointment availability:** How easy is it to schedule appointments with cardiologists and other specialists?

**Data Sources and Verification**

* **CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services):** The official source for hospital star ratings, quality data, and other metrics. ([https://www.medicare.gov/](https://www.medicare.gov/))
* **Hospital websites:** Provides information on services, specialists, and telehealth options.
* **Google Maps:** Offers information on ER wait times and patient reviews.
* **Healthgrades, U.S. News & World Report:** These platforms provide hospital ratings and reviews.
* **Local health departments:** May offer information on community health resources and initiatives.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a critical decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near the 44514 ZIP code, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialist availability, telehealth capabilities, and patient outcomes. By conducting thorough research and verifying information from multiple sources, patients can make informed choices and access the care they need to effectively manage their hypertension and improve their quality of life. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist for personalized recommendations.