15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 15828, Clarington, Pennsylvania is 69 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Help: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 15828

Finding the right hospital for managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 15828 (DuBois, Pennsylvania) and assesses their suitability for hypertension care, considering factors like specialized centers, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and more. While this review aims to provide helpful information, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician to determine the best course of treatment.

**The Landscape of Care in the DuBois Area**

The immediate vicinity of DuBois, PA, offers a limited selection of hospitals. The primary healthcare provider in the area is Penn Highlands Healthcare, which operates several facilities. This review will primarily focus on the flagship facilities of Penn Highlands, as well as considering options within a reasonable driving distance.

**Penn Highlands DuBois: The Local Hub**

Penn Highlands DuBois, located at 100 Hospital Ave, DuBois, PA 15801, is the most accessible hospital for residents of the 15828 ZIP code. This facility is a comprehensive hospital offering a range of services, including cardiology and emergency care, which are critical for hypertension management. Unfortunately, publicly available CMS star ratings for Penn Highlands DuBois are currently unavailable. This makes it difficult to assess the hospital's overall quality of care based on this metric.

**Emergency Department Considerations**

For individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis, rapid access to emergency care is paramount. ER wait times are a significant factor in evaluating a hospital's ability to handle such situations. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, it is important to note that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. It's always advisable to call the hospital before heading to the ER to inquire about current wait times, if possible. Penn Highlands DuBois’s ER is generally well-equipped to handle cardiac emergencies.

**Specialty Centers and Cardiology Services**

The presence of a dedicated cardiology department is crucial for comprehensive hypertension care. Penn Highlands DuBois has a cardiology department that offers a range of services, including diagnostic testing, such as electrocardiograms (EKGs), echocardiograms, and stress tests. They also provide interventional cardiology procedures, such as angioplasty and stenting, which are sometimes necessary for managing complications related to hypertension. The availability of these services locally is a significant advantage for residents of the 15828 area.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive medication management, and consult with their physicians without needing to travel to the hospital. Penn Highlands Healthcare, including Penn Highlands DuBois, has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. While specific statistics on telehealth utilization for hypertension management within Penn Highlands DuBois are not publicly available, the health system generally provides telehealth options for cardiology follow-up appointments and medication management. Patients should inquire directly with their physicians about available telehealth options.

**Beyond DuBois: Exploring Regional Options**

While Penn Highlands DuBois is the primary local option, residents may consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance for specialized care or if they are seeking a second opinion.

**Penn Highlands Brookville**

Located approximately 20 miles from DuBois, Penn Highlands Brookville is another facility within the Penn Highlands Healthcare system. It offers similar services to Penn Highlands DuBois, including cardiology and emergency care. Information on CMS star ratings and specific hypertension-related data for Penn Highlands Brookville is limited.

**UPMC Altoona**

Approximately 70 miles from DuBois, UPMC Altoona (620 Howard Ave, Altoona, PA 16601) is a larger hospital within the UPMC system. UPMC Altoona has a more extensive cardiology department and may offer a wider range of specialized services. UPMC Altoona has a 3-star CMS rating, indicating average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. While a longer drive, it offers a more comprehensive range of services. ER wait times can vary; checking online or calling before arrival is recommended.

**UPMC Williamsport**

Located approximately 80 miles from DuBois, UPMC Williamsport (700 High St, Williamsport, PA 17701) is another potential option. This hospital is part of the UPMC system and offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology. UPMC Williamsport has a 3-star CMS rating, similar to UPMC Altoona.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Several factors should be considered when selecting a hospital for hypertension care.

* **Physician Referral:** Your primary care physician is an excellent resource for recommendations. They can assess your specific needs and refer you to a cardiologist or hospital that best suits your situation.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure that the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the quality of care. However, it is important to interpret these reviews cautiously.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission indicates that the hospital meets certain quality standards.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital, particularly if you require frequent visits or have mobility issues.
* **Specialized Services:** If you have complex hypertension or related conditions, look for hospitals with specialized cardiology centers and access to advanced procedures.

**The Importance of Lifestyle Modifications**

While medical care is essential for managing hypertension, lifestyle modifications play a critical role in controlling blood pressure. These include:

* **Diet:** Following a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
* **Exercise:** Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if you are overweight or obese.
* **Sodium Reduction:** Limiting sodium intake.
* **Alcohol Consumption:** Moderating alcohol consumption.
* **Smoking Cessation:** Quitting smoking.
* **Stress Management:** Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as yoga or meditation.

**Conclusion**

For residents of the 15828 ZIP code, Penn Highlands DuBois is the primary local hospital for hypertension care, offering cardiology services and emergency care. While CMS star ratings are unavailable, the hospital is equipped to handle many hypertension-related needs. For more specialized care, UPMC Altoona and UPMC Williamsport, while further away, offer more extensive cardiology departments. Patients should work closely with their physicians, consider their insurance coverage, and factor in their individual needs when selecting a hospital. Remember that lifestyle modifications are crucial for effective hypertension management. This review provides a starting point for your research; however, consulting with your physician is essential for personalized medical advice.