16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 16347, Sheffield, Pennsylvania is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16347

Finding the right hospital for hypertension care near ZIP code 16347 (Warren, Pennsylvania) requires careful consideration. This review analyzes available data, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings to provide a comprehensive overview. Note that data availability varies, and this review reflects the most current publicly accessible information.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

Warren County, Pennsylvania, is primarily served by a few key healthcare providers. Warren General Hospital is the most immediate option. Other hospitals in the surrounding region, within a reasonable driving distance, also warrant consideration. These include facilities in Jamestown, NY, and Erie, PA.

**Warren General Hospital: A Local Focus**

Warren General Hospital (WGH) is the primary healthcare provider within the 16347 ZIP code. As a community hospital, it offers a range of services, including cardiology and internal medicine, which are crucial for hypertension management. Specific information on CMS star ratings for WGH is crucial for evaluating quality. Publicly available CMS data provides overall hospital ratings, which can be a useful benchmark. Checking the Hospital Compare website (Medicare.gov) is the best way to obtain the most up-to-date ratings.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially for hypertensive crises. While specific ER wait times fluctuate, data from sources like ProPublica's Hospital Checkup tool or individual hospital websites can provide insights. Shorter wait times generally indicate more efficient emergency care, which can be vital for managing sudden blood pressure spikes.

**Specialty Centers and Cardiology:**

The availability of specialized cardiology services is crucial for comprehensive hypertension care. Hospitals with dedicated cardiology departments, including cardiologists, electrophysiologists, and cardiac rehabilitation programs, are preferred. WGH likely offers cardiology services, and further investigation into the specific expertise of its cardiology team is recommended.

**Telehealth Integration:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication management, and virtual consultations with healthcare providers. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer improved access to care, especially for patients in rural areas. Information on telehealth availability at WGH, including the types of services offered (e.g., remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual appointments with cardiologists), is essential.

**Flagship Hospitals and Regional Options:**

Considering hospitals outside of Warren County expands the potential for specialized care. The nearest major cities with flagship hospitals are Erie, PA, and Jamestown, NY.

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

UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a major regional hospital. UPMC hospitals often have strong cardiology programs and access to advanced technology. UPMC Hamot’s CMS star rating, available on Medicare.gov, is a key indicator of overall quality. The hospital's ER wait times should be checked. It is likely to offer a comprehensive cardiology department, including interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. UPMC's telehealth capabilities are generally well-developed, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Other Erie, PA Hospitals:**

Other hospitals in Erie, PA, may also provide hypertension care. Examining their individual profiles, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and cardiology services, is important.

**WCA Hospital (Jamestown, NY): A Cross-Border Option**

WCA Hospital in Jamestown, New York, is another potential option for residents near 16347. Information on WCA Hospital’s CMS star rating (if available) is important. Its ER wait times and cardiology services should be investigated. The hospital's telehealth capabilities should also be assessed.

**Factors to Consider When Comparing Hospitals:**

* **CMS Star Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. Higher ratings generally indicate better performance.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter ER wait times can be crucial during hypertensive emergencies.
* **Cardiology Services:** The availability of specialized cardiology services, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac rehabilitation, is essential.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care and provide remote monitoring options.
* **Physician Expertise:** Researching the experience and expertise of cardiologists and other specialists is important.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online patient reviews can provide insights into patient experiences.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirming that the hospital accepts your insurance plan is essential.

**Detailed Analysis of Key Metrics:**

**CMS Star Ratings (Where Available):**

* **Warren General Hospital:** Check Medicare.gov for the most current rating.
* **UPMC Hamot (Erie, PA):** Check Medicare.gov for the most current rating.
* **WCA Hospital (Jamestown, NY):** Check Medicare.gov for the most current rating.

**ER Wait Times (Approximate):**

* **Warren General Hospital:** Check the hospital website or third-party sources like ProPublica.
* **UPMC Hamot (Erie, PA):** Check the hospital website or third-party sources like ProPublica.
* **WCA Hospital (Jamestown, NY):** Check the hospital website or third-party sources like ProPublica.

**Cardiology Services:**

* **Warren General Hospital:** Investigate the specific services offered by the cardiology department, including the presence of cardiologists and cardiac rehabilitation programs.
* **UPMC Hamot (Erie, PA):** Research the hospital's cardiology department, including interventional cardiology and electrophysiology services.
* **WCA Hospital (Jamestown, NY):** Research the hospital's cardiology department.

**Telehealth Offerings:**

* **Warren General Hospital:** Determine the availability of telehealth services, including virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.
* **UPMC Hamot (Erie, PA):** Explore UPMC's telehealth platform and services.
* **WCA Hospital (Jamestown, NY):** Determine the availability of telehealth services.

**Specific Considerations for Hypertension Management:**

* **Access to Cardiologists:** Ensure the hospital has readily available cardiologists for consultations and follow-up care.
* **Medication Management:** Confirm the hospital provides assistance with medication management, including prescription refills and patient education.
* **Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Determine the availability of home blood pressure monitoring programs and support.
* **Patient Education:** Look for hospitals that offer patient education programs on hypertension management, including lifestyle modifications and medication adherence.
* **Emergency Response:** Ensure the hospital has a well-defined protocol for managing hypertensive crises.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care near ZIP code 16347 requires careful research and comparison. Warren General Hospital offers a local option, while UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA, and WCA Hospital in Jamestown, NY, provide regional alternatives. By evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, cardiology services, telehealth capabilities, and other factors, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, adherence to medication regimens, and proactive communication with healthcare providers are critical for managing hypertension effectively. This review provides a starting point for this important decision-making process.