17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven or Healthcare Hurdle? A Review of Hospitals Near Hummelstown, PA (ZIP Code 17023) for Hypertension Care

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review focuses on hospitals near Hummelstown, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17023), assessing their capabilities in diagnosing, treating, and managing hypertension. We'll delve into key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings, providing a snapshot of available resources for residents.

**The Big Players: Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center**

The undisputed heavyweight in the region is the Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located just a short drive from Hummelstown. This is a flagship hospital, a Level I trauma center, and a teaching hospital. It boasts a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), a rating system that considers factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not a top-tier rating, it indicates a commitment to quality.

Hershey Medical Center's cardiology department is a significant draw for hypertension patients. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic testing like echocardiograms and stress tests, as well as interventional cardiology procedures. The hospital is equipped with advanced imaging technology, crucial for evaluating cardiovascular health. They also house specialized clinics for conditions often associated with hypertension, such as diabetes and kidney disease.

Regarding wait times, the Emergency Department at Hershey Medical Center typically experiences moderate wait times. According to recent data, the average wait time to see a provider hovers around 30-60 minutes, which can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. This is a critical factor for patients experiencing hypertensive crises or related emergencies.

Telehealth is increasingly important, and Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings. They provide virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists, allowing for remote monitoring and follow-up appointments. This is particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. The hospital's telehealth platform facilitates medication management, lifestyle counseling, and remote blood pressure monitoring.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital: A Regional Contender**

Another significant player in the area is Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital, located in Camp Hill, a reasonable drive from Hummelstown. This hospital also holds a 3-star CMS rating. Geisinger is known for its integrated healthcare system and its focus on value-based care.

Geisinger Holy Spirit's cardiology department offers a wide array of services, including diagnostic testing, interventional cardiology, and cardiac rehabilitation programs. They have a dedicated heart failure clinic, which is particularly relevant for hypertension patients who may develop heart failure as a complication.

Emergency room wait times at Geisinger Holy Spirit are generally comparable to Hershey Medical Center, averaging between 30 and 60 minutes. However, these times can vary significantly based on the time of day and the number of patients seeking care.

Geisinger has invested heavily in telehealth, offering a robust platform for virtual consultations and remote patient monitoring. They provide virtual visits with cardiologists, allowing for convenient follow-up appointments and medication management. Their telehealth services also include remote blood pressure monitoring programs, allowing patients to track their blood pressure readings and share them with their care providers.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital: A Local Option**

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, located in Harrisburg, is another option for residents of the Hummelstown area. This hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, demonstrating a commitment to quality care.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital's cardiology department provides a range of services, including diagnostic testing, interventional cardiology, and cardiac rehabilitation. They have a dedicated heart and vascular institute, which offers comprehensive care for patients with cardiovascular conditions.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital can vary, but they generally fall within the range of 30 to 60 minutes. It's essential to check current wait times before heading to the ER, especially if you are experiencing a hypertensive crisis.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists. They provide remote patient monitoring programs, allowing patients to track their blood pressure readings and share them with their care providers.

**Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Clinics: Complementing the Landscape**

Beyond the major hospitals, several smaller hospitals and outpatient clinics in the area provide additional options for hypertension care. These facilities may offer primary care services, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Community General Osteopathic Hospital, located in Harrisburg, is another option. It has a 3-star CMS rating.

These smaller facilities can be a convenient option for routine check-ups, medication refills, and lifestyle modifications. They often have shorter wait times than larger hospitals, making them a good choice for non-emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Targeted Hypertension Management**

Several specialized centers and programs in the region focus on hypertension management. These centers often provide comprehensive care, including diagnostic testing, medication management, lifestyle counseling, and patient education.

The Hershey Medical Center and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital both offer dedicated hypertension clinics. These clinics provide specialized care for patients with complex hypertension or those who have not responded to standard treatments.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance for Hypertension Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important tool for managing hypertension, particularly for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations. All the major hospitals in the region offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations with cardiologists, remote patient monitoring programs, and medication management.

Telehealth allows patients to receive care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits. It also enables healthcare providers to monitor patients' blood pressure readings remotely, making it easier to adjust medications and provide timely interventions.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for patients experiencing hypertensive crises or related emergencies. Wait times can vary depending on the hospital, the time of day, and the volume of patients. It's essential to check current wait times before heading to the ER, especially if you are experiencing chest pain, shortness of breath, or other concerning symptoms.

**Making Informed Choices: Key Considerations for Hypertension Patients**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care involves considering several factors. These include:

* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the sole determinant, CMS ratings provide a general indication of hospital quality.
* **Cardiology Department Capabilities:** Assess the range of services offered, including diagnostic testing, interventional cardiology, and specialized clinics.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Consider wait times, especially if you are prone to hypertensive crises.
* **Telehealth Offerings:** Evaluate the availability of virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services.
* **Proximity and Convenience:** Consider the hospital's location and accessibility.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital is in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Research patient experiences and reviews to gain insights into the quality of care.

**Conclusion: A Landscape of Choices**

Residents of Hummelstown, PA (ZIP code 17023) have several options for hypertension care. Hershey Medical Center and Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital are the major players, offering comprehensive cardiology services and robust telehealth platforms. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital and Community General Osteopathic Hospital offer additional options. The availability of specialty centers, telehealth services, and the proximity of these facilities provide a range of choices for managing hypertension effectively. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and access the care they need to manage their condition and maintain their cardiovascular health. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to determine the best course of treatment for your specific needs.