16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 16727, Derrick City, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Decoding Healthcare Options Near ZIP Code 16727

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near ZIP Code 16727 (Bradford, Pennsylvania) to help patients understand their options. The focus is on hypertension care, considering factors like hospital quality, specialist availability, and access to services like telehealth.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Ratings**

The primary hospital serving Bradford and the surrounding area is **UPMC McKean**, located within the 16701 ZIP code, a short distance from 16727. UPMC McKean is a critical access hospital, a designation for facilities in rural areas with limited bed capacity. Critical access hospitals are not assigned CMS star ratings. The hospital's performance data is primarily based on its ability to provide essential services and maintain quality standards.

**Delving Deeper: UPMC McKean's Strengths and Weaknesses**

UPMC McKean's strengths lie in its role as a local provider, offering essential services close to home. Its emergency department is a crucial resource for the community. However, as a critical access hospital, it may not have the same breadth of specialized services as larger, regional medical centers. Patients with complex hypertension cases or requiring advanced interventions might need to consider facilities further afield.

**Specialty Care: Access to Hypertension Expertise**

For hypertension management, access to cardiology and nephrology specialists is crucial. UPMC McKean likely has visiting specialists or affiliations with larger UPMC facilities that provide these services. Patients should inquire about the availability of cardiologists and nephrologists who specialize in hypertension management, including those with expertise in resistant hypertension or secondary causes of high blood pressure.

**Emergency Room Considerations: Wait Times and Efficiency**

Emergency room wait times can be a critical factor in healthcare access, especially during hypertensive crises. While specific ER wait time data for UPMC McKean is not readily available in real-time, patients should be aware of the potential for longer wait times, particularly during peak hours. Calling ahead or checking online resources for estimated wait times can be helpful. The hospital's efficiency in managing emergency cases, including rapid assessment and treatment of hypertensive emergencies, is a key consideration.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance and Expanding Access**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly in rural areas. UPMC, as a large health system, likely offers telehealth services, potentially including virtual consultations with cardiologists, nephrologists, and other specialists. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for hypertension management, allowing for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication adjustments, and follow-up appointments. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth options for hypertension care at UPMC McKean or through its affiliated providers.

**Beyond Bradford: Exploring Regional Healthcare Options**

While UPMC McKean is the primary hospital, patients may need to consider regional facilities for specialized care or advanced interventions. Several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance offer a broader range of services.

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

Located approximately 90 miles from Bradford, UPMC Hamot in Erie, Pennsylvania, is a large regional medical center. UPMC Hamot is a flagship hospital within the UPMC system and is rated by CMS. CMS star ratings, while not a perfect measure, provide a snapshot of hospital quality based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Patients should check the most recent CMS star rating for UPMC Hamot to assess its overall performance. UPMC Hamot has a comprehensive cardiology program, including specialized hypertension clinics and advanced cardiac procedures. Its ER is equipped to handle complex cases, and it likely has shorter wait times than smaller hospitals.

**Other Considerations for UPMC Hamot**

UPMC Hamot's greater size translates to a wider range of specialists, including those focused on resistant hypertension, secondary hypertension causes, and advanced cardiovascular interventions. Patients with complex hypertension cases may benefit from the expertise available at UPMC Hamot. Telehealth services are likely available through UPMC Hamot, potentially connecting patients with specialists remotely.

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

AHN Saint Vincent Hospital, also in Erie, is another major healthcare provider in the region. It is part of the Allegheny Health Network (AHN). CMS star ratings should be reviewed to evaluate the hospital's quality. AHN Saint Vincent has a cardiology department, offering services for hypertension management. Patients should investigate the availability of specialists with expertise in hypertension and the hospital's approach to managing hypertensive emergencies.

**Travel Time and Accessibility**

The driving distance to Erie hospitals (UPMC Hamot and AHN Saint Vincent) is a significant factor. Patients should consider travel time and potential challenges, especially during adverse weather conditions. For those with severe hypertension or requiring frequent specialist visits, proximity to a hospital with comprehensive cardiology services is crucial.

**Outpatient Clinics and Physician Practices**

Beyond hospitals, the availability of outpatient clinics and physician practices specializing in cardiology and nephrology is essential. Patients should research local physician practices and their affiliations with hospitals. These practices can provide ongoing hypertension management, medication adjustments, and preventative care.

**Researching Physician Credentials and Experience**

When choosing a physician, patients should verify their credentials, board certifications, and experience in managing hypertension. The American Medical Association (AMA) and other professional organizations offer online resources for physician profiles.

**Medication Management and Pharmacy Access**

Hypertension management relies heavily on medication adherence. Patients should ensure convenient access to pharmacies and understand their insurance coverage for hypertension medications. Local pharmacies in Bradford and the surrounding area offer prescription services.

**Lifestyle Modifications: A Crucial Component**

While medical care is essential, lifestyle modifications play a critical role in hypertension management. Patients should have access to resources that support healthy eating, regular exercise, and stress reduction. Hospitals and physician practices often offer educational programs and resources related to lifestyle changes.

**Insurance Coverage and Financial Considerations**

Understanding insurance coverage for hypertension care is crucial. Patients should verify their insurance plan's coverage for specialist visits, medications, and diagnostic tests. Financial assistance programs may be available for those with limited financial resources.

**Conclusion: A Personalized Approach to Hypertension Care**

Choosing the right healthcare provider for hypertension management requires careful consideration of individual needs and circumstances. For residents of ZIP Code 16727, UPMC McKean provides local access to essential services. However, for complex cases or advanced interventions, regional hospitals like UPMC Hamot and AHN Saint Vincent in Erie offer broader expertise and resources. Patients should evaluate hospital quality, specialist availability, ER wait times, telehealth options, and their own insurance coverage. A proactive approach, including researching physicians, understanding treatment options, and embracing lifestyle modifications, is essential for effectively managing hypertension and improving overall health. Regular communication with healthcare providers and ongoing monitoring of blood pressure are key to successful hypertension management.