16240, Mayport, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 16240, Mayport, Pennsylvania is 42 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16240**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires careful consideration of available resources. This review assesses hospitals near ZIP code 16240, focusing on their capabilities in managing hypertension, incorporating data on quality metrics, accessibility, and specialized services. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to assist residents in making informed decisions about their care.

**Defining the Scope**

ZIP code 16240, representing New Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, is situated in a region with several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance. This review considers hospitals within a 50-mile radius, acknowledging that access and travel time are critical factors in healthcare decisions, particularly during hypertensive crises. The analysis emphasizes factors relevant to hypertension management, including emergency care, cardiology services, and access to specialists.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

One of the most prominent hospitals serving the region is UPMC Northwest, located in nearby Seneca, PA. UPMC Northwest, a member of the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center system, is a significant healthcare provider in the area. However, specific CMS star ratings for UPMC Northwest are not publicly available at the time of this review. CMS star ratings are crucial as they provide a snapshot of a hospital's overall quality and performance, based on various metrics like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Another key player is Clarion Hospital, part of the Butler Health System, located in Clarion, PA. Clarion Hospital also serves the residents of the area. Publicly available CMS star ratings for Clarion Hospital are not available.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial metric for patients with hypertension, as timely intervention can be life-saving. Unfortunately, precise, real-time ER wait times are difficult to obtain consistently. However, publicly available data, such as those from Medicare.gov, can provide historical averages. These figures can vary based on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. Patients should consider calling the hospital directly or using online tools that may provide the most current information.

**Cardiology Centers and Specialized Services**

Effective hypertension management often requires specialized cardiology services. Both UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital have cardiology departments. These departments typically offer a range of services, including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms), stress tests, and interventional procedures like angioplasty. The availability of these services locally reduces the need for patients to travel long distances for specialized care.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, receive medication management, and consult with healthcare providers without physically visiting the hospital. Both UPMC and Clarion Hospital offer some telehealth services, though the specific scope and availability of these services can vary. Patients should inquire directly with the hospitals about their telehealth programs for hypertension management.

**Specialty Centers and Resources**

Beyond cardiology, access to other specialty centers can be beneficial for patients with hypertension. Diabetes management programs, renal care centers, and stroke centers are all relevant to managing hypertension and its potential complications. Both UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital have resources in these areas. The availability of these services ensures that patients can receive comprehensive care for all aspects of their health.

**Hospital Staffing and Expertise**

The quality of care is heavily influenced by the expertise of the medical staff. Both hospitals employ physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals with experience in managing hypertension. Patients should research the credentials and experience of the physicians and specialists at each hospital. The presence of board-certified cardiologists and endocrinologists is particularly important for comprehensive hypertension care.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are crucial indicators of a hospital's quality of care. Patient surveys, such as those conducted by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), can provide valuable insights into patient perceptions of their care. These surveys assess factors like communication with doctors and nurses, responsiveness of staff, and the overall hospital environment. Patients should consult these surveys to gain insights into the patient experience at each hospital.

**Accessibility and Transportation**

Accessibility is a significant factor for residents of ZIP code 16240. The availability of transportation options, including public transportation and ambulance services, can impact a patient's ability to access care, especially during a hypertensive crisis. The proximity of hospitals and the ease of access to emergency services are critical considerations.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Services**

Effective hypertension management requires consistent medication adherence. The availability of on-site pharmacies and medication counseling services can help patients manage their medications effectively. Both hospitals have pharmacies that provide convenient access to prescribed medications. Patients should inquire about medication counseling services to ensure they understand their medication regimens.

**Community Outreach and Education**

Hospitals often engage in community outreach and educational programs to raise awareness about health conditions like hypertension. These programs may include blood pressure screenings, educational workshops, and support groups. Residents of ZIP code 16240 should investigate the community outreach programs offered by each hospital to learn more about hypertension and its management.

**Cost and Insurance Coverage**

The cost of healthcare services and insurance coverage are important considerations for patients. The hospitals in the area accept a variety of insurance plans, including Medicare and Medicaid. Patients should confirm that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospital and understand their out-of-pocket costs. Financial assistance programs may be available for those who qualify.

**Specific Hospital Analysis**

* **UPMC Northwest:** As part of the UPMC system, this hospital benefits from the resources and expertise of a large healthcare network. It is a major provider in the region. The cardiology department is well-established. Telehealth services are available.
* **Clarion Hospital:** This hospital is part of the Butler Health System and provides a range of services. It has a cardiology department and other specialty services. Telehealth services are available.

**Conclusion**

Residents of ZIP code 16240 have access to several hospitals with the capacity to manage hypertension. UPMC Northwest and Clarion Hospital are the major players in the area, each offering cardiology services, emergency care, and other resources. Patients should carefully evaluate each hospital based on the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings (if available), ER wait times, the availability of specialized services, telehealth options, and patient experience. By considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and ensure they receive the best possible care for their hypertension. Further research, including direct contact with the hospitals, is recommended to gain the most current and specific information.