17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17013, Carlisle, Pennsylvania is 26 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Camp Hill, PA (ZIP Code 17013)

Finding the right hospital for hypertension management is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near Camp Hill, PA (ZIP Code 17013), evaluating their capabilities in treating hypertension based on available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Camp Hill, PA, a suburb of Harrisburg, offers residents several healthcare options. Access to quality hypertension care hinges on factors like hospital reputation, specialized services, and accessibility. This review aims to provide a factual overview, empowering residents to make informed decisions.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA)**

Located approximately 15 miles from Camp Hill, Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center is a major player in the region. It holds a commendable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall hospital quality, encompassing areas like patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. Hershey Medical Center is a teaching hospital, often associated with advanced medical practices and research.

The hospital boasts a comprehensive cardiology department, crucial for hypertension management. They offer a full spectrum of services, from diagnostic testing like echocardiograms and stress tests to interventional cardiology procedures. The presence of a dedicated cardiology team, including specialists in hypertension, is a significant advantage.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center are a key consideration. While data fluctuates, average wait times should be checked on the hospital's website or through resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, especially in emergency situations related to hypertension, such as hypertensive crises.

Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings. Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for chronic condition management, including hypertension. Patients can utilize virtual consultations for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling. This can improve access to care, particularly for those with mobility limitations or transportation challenges. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual hypertension appointments or patient satisfaction scores, are valuable indicators of program effectiveness and should be investigated.

**UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA)**

Situated closer to Camp Hill, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital is another significant healthcare provider. It currently holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality metrics.

Harrisburg Hospital has a robust cardiology program. They offer a range of services, including diagnostic testing, cardiac catheterization, and interventional cardiology. Patients with hypertension often require these services for accurate diagnosis and treatment.

ER wait times at Harrisburg Hospital are a crucial factor. Data on wait times should be obtained from the hospital's website or through reliable sources. Shorter wait times are essential for timely care, especially during hypertensive emergencies.

Telehealth services are also available at Harrisburg Hospital. The availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring programs for hypertension patients can improve access to care and support self-management. Information on the specifics of their telehealth program, such as the number of virtual appointments or patient satisfaction, should be researched.

**Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA)**

Holy Spirit Hospital, located within Camp Hill, offers a more localized healthcare option. While it is part of the UPMC network, its services differ slightly from UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital.

Holy Spirit Hospital's cardiology department provides essential services for hypertension management. The hospital's focus on community-based care might offer a more personalized approach for some patients.

ER wait times are a critical factor for Holy Spirit Hospital. Checking for current wait times is essential for determining how quickly patients can receive care.

Telehealth options are also available at Holy Spirit Hospital. The hospital's telehealth program can be used for follow-up appointments and medication management.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other factors influence hypertension care quality.

**Specialty Centers:** Look for hospitals with specialized centers for cardiovascular disease. These centers often have dedicated teams of specialists, advanced technology, and research programs, potentially leading to improved outcomes.

**Physician Expertise:** The experience and expertise of cardiologists and primary care physicians are crucial. Researching the qualifications and experience of the physicians affiliated with each hospital is recommended.

**Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights into the quality of care. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals offer patient reviews and ratings.

**Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location, parking availability, and public transportation options. Easy access to care is essential, especially for those with mobility issues or transportation challenges.

**Cost:** Healthcare costs vary. Check with your insurance provider to understand your coverage and potential out-of-pocket expenses.

**Telehealth Specifics:** When evaluating telehealth options, inquire about the platforms used, the types of services offered, and the availability of technical support.

**Hospital Compare:** The CMS Hospital Compare website (Medicare.gov/care-compare) is a valuable resource. It provides information on hospital quality, including star ratings, wait times, and patient experience measures.

**Emergency Preparedness:** Hospitals should have well-defined protocols for managing hypertensive crises and other cardiovascular emergencies.

**Research and Clinical Trials:** Hospitals involved in research and clinical trials may offer access to innovative treatments and therapies.

**Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, to supplement hospital-based care.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management near Camp Hill, PA, requires careful consideration. Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg Hospital are major providers with comprehensive cardiology programs. Holy Spirit Hospital offers a more localized option. Evaluating CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth options, and patient reviews, combined with personal preferences and insurance coverage, will help residents make informed decisions. Continuous monitoring of hospital performance and staying informed about advancements in hypertension care are essential for optimal health outcomes.