16201, Kittanning, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 16201, Kittanning, Pennsylvania is 21 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16201

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 16201 (Clarion, Pennsylvania) to provide a fact-rich assessment of their capabilities in hypertension management, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. This information is current as of October 26, 2023, and is intended for informational purposes only, not as medical advice.

**The Local Landscape: Clarion Hospital**

The primary hospital directly serving the 16201 area is Clarion Hospital, a part of the Butler Health System. While not a flagship hospital with a large national presence, Clarion Hospital plays a crucial role in providing local healthcare. Unfortunately, publicly available CMS star ratings for Clarion Hospital are unavailable. This makes it difficult to gauge overall quality using this particular metric.

Clarion Hospital’s emergency room wait times, a critical factor for anyone experiencing a hypertensive crisis, are not consistently reported publicly. Prospective patients should contact the hospital directly or check local resources like the Healthgrades website for the most up-to-date information.

Clarion Hospital does offer a range of services, including cardiology. The hospital’s cardiology department is equipped to diagnose and treat a variety of cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension. The availability of specialized hypertension clinics or programs is not readily available in publicly available information.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Clarion Hospital's telehealth capabilities are also not readily available in publicly available information. Patients should inquire directly with the hospital about its telehealth options for hypertension management, including remote monitoring and virtual consultations.

**Venturing Beyond Clarion: Exploring Regional Options**

Given the limitations of publicly available information on Clarion Hospital, individuals in the 16201 area may consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This expands the scope of available resources and potentially offers access to more specialized care.

**UPMC Northwest (Seneca, PA): A Regional Player**

Located approximately 30 miles from Clarion, UPMC Northwest in Seneca, PA, is a significant regional healthcare provider. UPMC Northwest is a part of the larger UPMC system, which has a strong reputation for quality care. However, the hospital's CMS star rating is not readily available.

UPMC Northwest’s emergency room wait times are also not consistently available through public sources. Patients should consult the hospital’s website or contact them directly for the most current data.

UPMC Northwest offers a cardiology department that addresses cardiovascular health, including hypertension. The hospital may have specialized programs or clinics focused on hypertension management, although this information is not readily available. Checking the UPMC Northwest website or contacting their cardiology department is recommended.

UPMC, in general, is a leader in telehealth. UPMC Northwest likely offers some telehealth options, including virtual visits and remote monitoring, for patients with hypertension. Information on specific telehealth programs should be available on the hospital’s website or by contacting their patient services department.

**UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside (Pittsburgh, PA): A Flagship Option (Approx. 80 miles)**

For individuals seeking a flagship hospital with a wider range of specialized services, UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside in Pittsburgh, PA, represents a significant option, though it requires a longer drive. This hospital, part of the UPMC system, is a major academic medical center. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside has a CMS star rating of 4 stars.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside’s emergency room wait times are typically longer than those of smaller community hospitals due to the higher volume of patients. However, the hospital’s website and online resources often provide real-time wait time updates.

UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside boasts a comprehensive cardiology department and numerous specialty centers. The hospital is likely to have specialized hypertension clinics and programs, including access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options. Information on these programs is readily available on the UPMC website.

UPMC is a leader in telehealth. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside offers a robust telehealth program, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and specialized programs for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The hospital’s telehealth platform is well-developed, providing patients with convenient access to care.

**Forbes Hospital (Monroeville, PA): A Flagship Option (Approx. 80 miles)**

Another flagship option within a similar driving distance is Forbes Hospital in Monroeville, PA. Forbes Hospital is also part of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN). Forbes Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

Forbes Hospital’s emergency room wait times are typically available on their website and through online resources. Patients should check these resources for real-time updates.

Forbes Hospital offers a comprehensive cardiology department. The hospital may have specialized hypertension clinics and programs, including access to advanced diagnostic tools and treatment options. Information on these programs is readily available on the AHN website.

Forbes Hospital also offers a telehealth program, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and specialized programs for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. The hospital’s telehealth platform is well-developed, providing patients with convenient access to care.

**Other Considerations: Distance and Accessibility**

The decision of where to seek care involves several factors beyond hospital ratings and services. Distance and accessibility are crucial. While flagship hospitals offer specialized care, the travel time can be a significant consideration, especially during a hypertensive crisis.

Individuals should consider their personal circumstances, including access to transportation, the severity of their condition, and the recommendations of their primary care physician.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in hypertension management. It allows patients to monitor their blood pressure at home, receive virtual consultations with their physicians, and access educational resources. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can provide convenient and effective care for patients in the 16201 area.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Managing hypertension requires proactive care and access to appropriate medical resources. For residents of the 16201 area, Clarion Hospital is the primary local provider, but information on its specific hypertension services and performance metrics is limited. UPMC Northwest offers a regional alternative. UPMC Presbyterian Shadyside and Forbes Hospital, while requiring longer travel times, provide access to flagship-level care and specialized programs.

Patients should research each hospital, considering factors like CMS star ratings (when available), ER wait times, cardiology services, and telehealth offerings. Consulting with a primary care physician is essential to determine the best course of action and make informed decisions about their healthcare. Remember to always prioritize immediate medical attention during a hypertensive crisis.