44638, Lakeville, Ohio Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 44638, Lakeville, Ohio is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven or Health Hazard? A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near 44638

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a chronic condition like hypertension, demands informed choices. This review delves into the hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 44638 (Alliance, Ohio), focusing on their ability to manage and treat hypertension, along with key performance indicators to help you make the best decision for your health.

**The Landscape: Key Players and General Overview**

The primary healthcare providers for residents of Alliance and surrounding areas are Aultman Alliance Community Hospital and University Hospitals (UH) Portage Medical Center. Other options, further afield, include Cleveland Clinic facilities, offering specialized care. This review will concentrate on the most accessible options for residents of 44638, focusing on their capabilities in hypertension management.

**Aultman Alliance Community Hospital: A Local Anchor**

Aultman Alliance Community Hospital, located in Alliance, is a crucial healthcare provider for the local community. While not a flagship hospital with a sprawling network, it offers essential services, including a focus on cardiovascular health. Their cardiology department is a vital resource for hypertension patients.

**CMS Star Ratings:** Aultman Alliance Community Hospital currently holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality of care, based on various metrics. While not the highest possible score, it indicates a baseline level of performance. It's crucial to understand that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are a significant factor for anyone experiencing a hypertensive crisis. Publicly available data on ER wait times can fluctuate. It is best to check the hospital’s website or a third-party website like ER Wait Times to obtain the most current data.

**Cardiology Services:** Aultman Alliance has a dedicated cardiology department that is crucial for hypertension management. They offer services including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms), and potentially, cardiac catheterization. The availability of these services locally is a significant advantage for patients.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** The hospital may offer telehealth services, which can be beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Contacting the hospital directly is the best way to determine the current availability of telehealth options.

**University Hospitals Portage Medical Center: A Regional Presence**

UH Portage Medical Center, located in Ravenna, offers another option for residents near 44638. As part of the larger University Hospitals system, it provides access to a broader network of specialists and resources.

**CMS Star Ratings:** UH Portage Medical Center currently holds a 3-star rating from the CMS.

**Emergency Room Performance:** ER wait times are an important consideration. Check the hospital’s website or a third-party website like ER Wait Times to obtain the most current data.

**Cardiology Services:** UH Portage Medical Center has a cardiology department that provides essential services for hypertension patients. They offer diagnostic testing, and access to specialists.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** UH Portage Medical Center likely offers telehealth services, potentially including virtual appointments with cardiologists and other specialists. Check their website or call the hospital to confirm available telehealth options.

**Specialty Centers: Beyond the Basics**

Neither Aultman Alliance nor UH Portage Medical Center is a dedicated heart hospital. However, both offer the essential services needed to manage hypertension. For complex cases, access to specialized care may be necessary.

**Cleveland Clinic: A Regional Powerhouse**

The Cleveland Clinic, while not directly in Alliance, is within a reasonable driving distance. The Cleveland Clinic is renowned for its cardiovascular program and is ranked among the best in the nation. This provides access to a higher level of specialized care.

**Cleveland Clinic Heart & Vascular Institute:** The Cleveland Clinic's Heart & Vascular Institute is a world-renowned center for cardiovascular care. They offer a comprehensive range of services, from preventative cardiology to advanced interventions. This is an excellent option for patients with complex hypertension or related heart conditions.

**Access and Travel:** Accessing the Cleveland Clinic requires travel. However, the potential benefits of specialized care may outweigh the inconvenience for some patients.

**Telehealth at Cleveland Clinic:** The Cleveland Clinic has invested heavily in telehealth, offering virtual appointments, remote monitoring programs, and other digital health services. This can improve access to care, especially for patients living outside of Cleveland.

**Comparing the Options: Key Considerations**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management involves several factors.

**Proximity and Convenience:** Aultman Alliance and UH Portage Medical Center offer the convenience of local care. This is especially important for regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and in case of emergencies.

**Specialty Care:** For complex cases, the Cleveland Clinic offers a higher level of specialized care. However, this comes with the added travel time and potential logistical challenges.

**ER Wait Times:** ER wait times are critical in a hypertensive crisis. Researching the average wait times for each hospital is essential.

**Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Physician Quality:** Researching the physicians at each hospital, including their experience and specializations, is crucial. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide information about doctors.

**Patient Reviews:** Reading patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at each hospital. Websites like Google Reviews and Healthgrades offer patient feedback.

**Specific Hypertension Services to Inquire About:**

When contacting hospitals, inquire about the following:

* **Blood Pressure Monitoring Programs:** Does the hospital offer programs for home blood pressure monitoring?
* **Medication Management:** What resources are available to help manage medications?
* **Education and Support:** Does the hospital provide educational materials or support groups for hypertension patients?
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** Does the hospital offer cardiac rehabilitation services?
* **Access to Specialists:** What is the process for referrals to cardiologists, nephrologists, or other specialists?

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Managing hypertension requires a proactive approach and a strong partnership with your healthcare provider. For residents near 44638, Aultman Alliance and UH Portage Medical Center offer convenient access to essential services. For complex cases, the Cleveland Clinic provides access to specialized care. Carefully consider your individual needs, research the available options, and choose the hospital that best suits your health requirements. Remember to consult with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action.