16744, Rew, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 16744, Rew, Pennsylvania is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Hotspots: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 16744

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, is crucial. This review provides a fact-rich assessment of hospitals near ZIP code 16744 (Port Allegany, Pennsylvania), focusing on their capabilities in diagnosing, treating, and managing hypertension. We'll examine factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings to help you make informed decisions.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

Port Allegany, nestled in McKean County, has limited immediate hospital options. This necessitates a broader look at healthcare providers within a reasonable driving distance. The primary considerations will be the quality of care, accessibility, and the availability of specialized services for hypertension management.

**UPMC Hamot (Erie, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Located approximately 80 miles from Port Allegany, UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA, emerges as a significant player. UPMC Hamot is a large, tertiary care center. While specific hypertension-related data is not always publicly available, the hospital's overall reputation and resources suggest a strong capacity for managing complex cases.

UPMC Hamot boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not a perfect indicator, reflects the hospital's performance in various areas, including patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. A higher star rating generally indicates better overall quality.

**Specialized Hypertension Care at UPMC Hamot:**

UPMC Hamot likely has a cardiology department with a focus on hypertension management. Look for details on the hospital's website or by calling the hospital directly to confirm the existence of specialized clinics or programs. These programs might include:

* **Cardiology Clinics:** Offering comprehensive evaluations, medication management, and lifestyle counseling for patients with hypertension.
* **Vascular Specialists:** Addressing any vascular complications related to hypertension.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** Providing supervised exercise and education to help patients manage their condition and improve their cardiovascular health.

**Emergency Room Considerations:**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor, especially for those experiencing hypertensive crises. While specific wait times fluctuate, you can often find real-time or recent wait time information on the hospital's website or through online platforms like Google Maps. UPMC Hamot's size and resources typically mean they have a well-equipped emergency department.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth is increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. UPMC often offers telehealth services, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely, monitor their blood pressure, and receive medication refills. Check the UPMC website for details on telehealth options, including available specialties and how to schedule appointments.

**Olean General Hospital (Olean, NY): A Closer Option**

Approximately 45 miles from Port Allegany, Olean General Hospital in Olean, NY, provides a closer alternative. Olean General is a community hospital. It is part of the Upper Allegheny Health System.

**CMS Star Rating and General Performance:**

Olean General Hospital's CMS star rating and specific performance metrics should be researched on the CMS Hospital Compare website. This site provides detailed information on various quality measures, including those relevant to heart health.

**Hypertension Services at Olean General:**

Olean General likely has a cardiology department. Check the hospital's website or call to inquire about:

* **Cardiology Services:** Including diagnosis, treatment, and management of hypertension.
* **Access to Cardiologists:** The availability of cardiologists for consultations and follow-up care is essential.
* **Cardiac Testing:** The availability of diagnostic tests like echocardiograms and stress tests is vital for evaluating heart health.

**Emergency Room Wait Times:**

Emergency room wait times at Olean General should be researched. Check the hospital's website or online platforms for the most up-to-date information.

**Telehealth Offerings:**

Telehealth services at Olean General should be investigated. Look for information on remote consultations, blood pressure monitoring programs, and access to specialists via telehealth.

**Other Hospitals to Consider (and Their Challenges):**

Several other hospitals might be within a reasonable driving distance, but their resources and capabilities might be more limited. These include:

* **Bradford Regional Medical Center (Bradford, PA):** This is a closer option. However, it's a smaller community hospital, and its capacity for specialized hypertension care might be less extensive than UPMC Hamot or Olean General. Check its CMS star rating, services, and wait times.
* **Charles Cole Memorial Hospital (Coudersport, PA):** This is another smaller hospital. It's important to research its services and capabilities.

**Navigating the Healthcare System:**

When choosing a hospital, consider the following:

* **Your Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are within your insurance network.
* **Physician Referrals:** If you have a primary care physician, ask for recommendations for cardiologists or specialists who specialize in hypertension.
* **Hospital Websites:** Visit the websites of the hospitals you're considering to learn about their services, physician directories, and patient resources.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online patient reviews to get insights into the experiences of other patients.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the hospital, traffic conditions, and the availability of parking.

**The Importance of Proactive Hypertension Management:**

Managing hypertension requires a proactive approach. This includes:

* **Regular Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Monitor your blood pressure regularly at home and during doctor's visits.
* **Medication Adherence:** Take your prescribed medications as directed by your doctor.
* **Lifestyle Modifications:** Adopt a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, weight management, and limiting sodium intake.
* **Regular Check-ups:** Attend regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your blood pressure, adjust medications as needed, and address any potential complications.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of Port Allegany (ZIP code 16744), UPMC Hamot in Erie, PA, offers a robust healthcare option. It provides a comprehensive approach to hypertension management. Olean General Hospital in Olean, NY, offers a closer alternative. However, its capabilities may be more limited. Thorough research, including reviewing CMS star ratings, checking ER wait times, and exploring telehealth options, is essential. Prioritize your health by actively managing your hypertension and seeking the best possible care. Remember to consult with your doctor and consider your individual needs and preferences when choosing a hospital.