15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 15733, De Lancey, Pennsylvania is 66 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15733

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, demands informed choices. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP Code 15733 (Indiana, Pennsylvania), offering a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities and performance in managing hypertension, including relevant CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options.

**Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC): The Local Hub**

Indiana Regional Medical Center (IRMC), located directly within the 15733 ZIP code, serves as the primary healthcare provider for the immediate area. IRMC holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a composite score based on various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While not reaching the highest echelon, a 3-star rating indicates a generally acceptable level of care.

IRMC's Emergency Department (ED) is a critical point of access. Data suggests that the average ER wait time at IRMC fluctuates, but it's essential to understand that these times can vary significantly based on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. It's always advisable to call ahead or check online resources for the most up-to-date information on current wait times.

IRMC offers a cardiology department that plays a crucial role in hypertension management. This department provides diagnostic services, including electrocardiograms (ECGs), echocardiograms, and stress tests, essential for assessing the impact of hypertension on the heart. They also offer treatment options, including medication management and lifestyle counseling. While specific details on the number of cardiologists or the volume of hypertension-related procedures are not readily available, IRMC's cardiology department is a key component of its hypertension care.

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important in healthcare delivery. IRMC has expanded its telehealth offerings, allowing patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely. The availability of telehealth appointments for hypertension management can vary, so patients should inquire directly with the hospital regarding specific services and scheduling options. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication adjustments.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside: A Regional Powerhouse (Distance Considerations)**

While not located directly within the 15733 ZIP code, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, is a significant regional healthcare provider. The drive from Indiana, PA, is approximately an hour and a half. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside consistently earns high marks for quality and is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher level of overall performance compared to IRMC.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside's cardiology department is a regional leader. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including advanced diagnostic testing, interventional cardiology procedures, and electrophysiology services. The hospital is also a teaching hospital, meaning it is affiliated with a medical school and often has access to the latest research and treatment protocols. This can translate to more specialized care options for complex hypertension cases.

The ER at UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside experiences high patient volumes, which can impact wait times. It is essential to be prepared for potential delays, and patients should consider the severity of their condition when deciding whether to seek care at this location. The hospital's website and online resources provide real-time updates on ED wait times.

UPMC has invested heavily in telehealth infrastructure. They offer a robust telehealth platform that allows patients to connect with specialists remotely. This includes virtual appointments for cardiology and hypertension management. The availability of telehealth appointments can significantly improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.

**UPMC Altoona: A Mid-Distance Option**

Another UPMC facility, UPMC Altoona, is located approximately an hour and a half from 15733. UPMC Altoona has a 3-star CMS rating, placing it on par with IRMC in terms of overall quality.

UPMC Altoona's cardiology department provides a range of services, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. The hospital is a regional referral center, and the cardiology department is equipped to handle a variety of cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension-related complications.

The ER at UPMC Altoona, like other hospitals, experiences fluctuating wait times. It is crucial to check online resources for the most current information.

UPMC Altoona also offers telehealth services. Patients should inquire about the availability of virtual appointments with cardiologists and other healthcare providers for hypertension management.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Clinics and Outpatient Services**

Beyond the primary hospitals, it is important to consider the availability of specialty clinics and outpatient services in the area. Some hospitals may have affiliated cardiology clinics or outpatient centers that offer specialized care for hypertension. These clinics may provide services such as blood pressure monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

The presence of endocrinologists is also a factor. Hypertension can sometimes be related to underlying endocrine disorders. Having access to endocrinology specialists can be beneficial for patients with complex cases or those who require a comprehensive evaluation.

**Medication Management and Pharmacist Involvement**

Effective hypertension management often involves medication. The availability of pharmacists and pharmacy services within the hospitals and in the surrounding community is a crucial consideration. Pharmacists can play a key role in medication education, adherence monitoring, and potential medication adjustments. Patients should inquire about the availability of pharmacist consultations and medication management programs at each hospital.

**Research and Innovation: A Look Ahead**

While the focus of this review is on current services, it is also worth considering the hospitals' involvement in research and innovation. Hospitals that participate in clinical trials or are affiliated with research institutions may have access to the latest treatment options and technologies. Patients should inquire about any ongoing research projects related to hypertension management.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a vital component of healthcare quality. While CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital performance, it is also important to consider patient feedback. Online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the communication skills of healthcare providers, and the overall patient experience.

**Making the Right Choice: A Summary**

For residents of the 15733 ZIP code, IRMC serves as the primary local healthcare provider, offering essential services for hypertension management. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside, despite its distance, provides a higher level of specialized care and is a regional leader in cardiology. UPMC Altoona offers a mid-distance alternative with a comparable CMS rating to IRMC.

When selecting a hospital for hypertension management, patients should consider the following factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** Provides a general indication of overall quality.
* **Cardiology Department:** Assess the range of services offered, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and specialist availability.
* **ER Wait Times:** Consider potential delays and the severity of your condition.
* **Telehealth Options:** Evaluate the availability of virtual appointments for convenience and access to care.
* **Patient Reviews:** Gather insights into patient experiences and satisfaction levels.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Factor in travel time and ease of access to each hospital.

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on individual needs and preferences. By carefully considering these factors, patients can make informed decisions about their hypertension care and choose the hospital that best meets their needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to determine the most appropriate course of action. This review provides a starting point for your research, but personalized medical advice should always come from a qualified healthcare professional.