16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 16340, Pittsfield, Pennsylvania is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Hotspots: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 16340

Finding the right healthcare for hypertension management is crucial, and proximity matters. This review dives into the hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 16340 (Warren, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-rich assessment to help you make informed decisions. We'll analyze hospital performance, specialty services, and access to care, focusing on factors relevant to hypertension patients.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Hospitals in the Vicinity**

The primary hospital serving Warren, PA, and its surrounding areas is **Warren General Hospital (WGH)**. It's a critical access hospital, meaning it receives federal funding and has specific size and service limitations. While not a flagship facility with extensive specialty centers, WGH plays a vital role in providing essential healthcare services to the community.

**Warren General Hospital: A Closer Look**

WGH's performance metrics are important. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) does not provide a star rating for critical access hospitals. However, it's important to understand the hospital's performance on key quality indicators. CMS's Hospital Compare website provides data on measures like heart attack and heart failure care. Analyzing these metrics, such as adherence to medication protocols and timely interventions, provides valuable insight into the quality of care for hypertension-related conditions.

**Emergency Room Access and Wait Times**

Emergency room access is critical, especially for hypertensive crises. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, data from CMS's Hospital Compare website offers insights. The average wait time to see a provider and the time it takes to leave the ER after being seen are key indicators. Reviewing these metrics helps understand how efficiently the ER manages patient flow. It's crucial to understand that wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of other emergencies.

**Specialty Services and Cardiology Focus**

For hypertension management, cardiology services are paramount. WGH offers cardiology services, including diagnostic testing like echocardiograms and stress tests. However, the scope of these services might be limited compared to larger, tertiary care centers. Patients with complex hypertension cases or requiring specialized interventions, such as cardiac catheterization or electrophysiology studies, may need to seek care at facilities with more comprehensive cardiology programs.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. WGH may offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations with primary care physicians and specialists. These services can be particularly beneficial for medication management, lifestyle counseling, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Inquire about the availability of remote blood pressure monitoring programs, which allow patients to track their readings at home and share them with their healthcare providers.

**Expanding the Horizon: Hospitals Within Driving Distance**

While WGH is the primary hospital, residents near 16340 have options within a reasonable driving distance. These facilities offer a broader range of services and might be considered for specialized care or second opinions.

**UPMC Hamot (Erie, PA): A Regional Powerhouse**

Located in Erie, Pennsylvania, UPMC Hamot is a larger, tertiary care center. It's approximately an hour's drive from Warren. UPMC Hamot is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system. It boasts a four-star CMS rating, indicating above-average performance in several quality measures.

**UPMC Hamot: Cardiology and Hypertension Expertise**

UPMC Hamot has a robust cardiology department, including specialized clinics for hypertension and advanced heart failure. They offer a full spectrum of services, including:

* **Interventional Cardiology:** Angioplasty, stenting, and other procedures to open blocked arteries.
* **Electrophysiology:** Treatment of heart rhythm disorders, including atrial fibrillation.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** Programs to help patients recover after heart attacks or other cardiac events.

**UPMC Hamot: ER Performance and Access**

UPMC Hamot's ER sees a high volume of patients. While wait times can fluctuate, CMS data provides insights into average wait times and patient satisfaction. Understanding these metrics is crucial when considering the hospital for urgent care needs.

**Telehealth at UPMC Hamot**

UPMC, as a system, has invested heavily in telehealth. They offer virtual visits for various specialties, including cardiology and primary care. Patients can often manage their hypertension through virtual consultations, medication refills, and remote monitoring programs.

**Saint Vincent Hospital (Erie, PA): Another Option**

Another option in Erie is Saint Vincent Hospital, part of the AHN (Allegheny Health Network). Saint Vincent is also approximately an hour's drive from Warren. It is also a four-star CMS-rated hospital.

**Saint Vincent Hospital: Cardiology and Specialized Care**

Saint Vincent Hospital has a comprehensive cardiology program, offering similar services to UPMC Hamot, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac rehabilitation. They provide specialized care for hypertension management.

**Saint Vincent Hospital: ER Considerations**

Saint Vincent's ER provides another option for emergency care. Like UPMC Hamot, it's important to review CMS data on wait times and patient satisfaction to assess ER efficiency.

**AHN Telehealth Services**

AHN, like UPMC, has a significant telehealth presence. They offer virtual visits and remote monitoring programs, potentially providing convenient access to care for hypertension patients.

**Comparing the Options: A Summary Table**

| Hospital | CMS Star Rating | Distance from 16340 | Cardiology Services