17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17024, Elliottsburg, Pennsylvania is 62 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven or Healthcare Hazard? A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17024

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review delves into the hospitals serving the area near ZIP code 17024 (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-rich assessment to help patients make the best decisions for their health. We'll examine key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized hypertension centers, telehealth availability, and overall reputation.

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

Two major players dominate the healthcare scene near Elizabethtown: Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg. These flagship hospitals offer a wide array of services and are often the first choice for complex medical needs.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:** Located a short drive from Elizabethtown, Hershey Medical Center is a large, academic medical center. It boasts a respectable CMS star rating, though the exact number fluctuates, so patients should check the latest data on the CMS Hospital Compare website. Hershey Medical Center is known for its advanced cardiology services, including specialized centers for heart failure and arrhythmia management, which are crucial for hypertension patients. They have a strong reputation for research and innovation, often participating in clinical trials that offer cutting-edge treatments. ER wait times at Hershey can vary, so patients should utilize online tools like the hospital's website or third-party apps to check estimated wait times before arriving. Telehealth services are increasingly available, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly helpful for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Specific statistics on telehealth usage and availability can be found on the hospital's website.

**UPMC Harrisburg:** Situated in Harrisburg, UPMC Harrisburg is another major regional hospital. Like Hershey, it's a large facility with a comprehensive range of services. Check the CMS website for the most current star rating. UPMC Harrisburg offers a robust cardiology department, including specialists in hypertension management. They also have established protocols for rapid response to cardiac emergencies. ER wait times are a crucial consideration, and patients should consult the UPMC website or other sources for the most up-to-date information. Telehealth is a growing area for UPMC, with options for virtual visits and remote monitoring. Check the UPMC website for specific details on telehealth services for cardiology and hypertension management.

**Smaller Hospitals and Outpatient Options:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several smaller facilities and outpatient centers serve the area, offering alternative care options.

**WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital (Lebanon):** Located in Lebanon, WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital provides a more localized option for residents near Elizabethtown. It's generally a smaller hospital than Hershey or UPMC Harrisburg, but still offers a range of services, including cardiology. Check the CMS website for its star rating. ER wait times are typically shorter than those at the larger hospitals, making it a potentially quicker option for less urgent situations. The hospital has a growing focus on outpatient services and community health programs, including hypertension education and management.

**UPMC Pinnacle Lancaster:** While not directly in Elizabethtown, UPMC Pinnacle Lancaster is within a reasonable driving distance and provides another UPMC option. It offers a cardiology department and other specialized services. Patients should check the CMS website for its star rating and UPMC's website for ER wait times.

**Outpatient Clinics and Specialized Centers:**

For ongoing hypertension management, outpatient clinics and specialized centers play a crucial role.

**Penn State Health Medical Group – Cardiology (Various Locations):** Penn State Health operates several cardiology clinics throughout the region, including locations near Elizabethtown. These clinics provide specialized care for hypertension, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and regular check-ups.

**UPMC Cardiology (Various Locations):** UPMC also operates cardiology clinics in the area, offering similar services to Penn State Health. Patients can find specific clinic locations and information on the UPMC website.

**Community Health Centers:** Several community health centers in the area provide primary care services, including hypertension screening and management. These centers often offer more affordable care options and may be a good choice for patients with limited insurance coverage.

**Telehealth: A Growing Tool for Hypertension Management:**

Telehealth is rapidly changing the landscape of healthcare, and its impact on hypertension management is significant. Both Penn State Health and UPMC offer telehealth services for cardiology and primary care, allowing patients to consult with doctors remotely, monitor their blood pressure, and receive medication refills. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for patients with hypertension, as it allows for more frequent monitoring and follow-up, which can lead to better blood pressure control. Specific information on telehealth services, including how to access them and the types of services offered, is available on the hospitals' websites.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration:**

ER wait times are a crucial factor to consider when choosing a hospital, especially in an emergency. Patients should use online tools, such as the hospitals' websites or third-party apps, to check estimated wait times before heading to the ER. These tools can provide real-time information on wait times, allowing patients to choose the ER with the shortest wait. Remember that wait times can fluctuate depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the number of patients seeking care.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Guide:**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality, based on factors such as patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. However, these ratings should not be the sole basis for choosing a hospital. Patients should also consider other factors, such as the hospital's specialized services, ER wait times, and their own individual needs and preferences.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Expertise:**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension care, it's important to consider the hospital's expertise in this area. Look for hospitals with specialized hypertension centers or cardiologists with specific training in hypertension management. These centers often offer comprehensive care, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and advanced diagnostic testing.

**Reputation and Patient Reviews:**

In addition to the factors mentioned above, patients should also consider the hospital's reputation and patient reviews. Online reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience, including the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall satisfaction with the hospital. However, remember that online reviews can be subjective, and it's important to consider a variety of sources before making a decision.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice for You:**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration of various factors. Patients near ZIP code 17024 have several options, including large academic medical centers like Hershey Medical Center and UPMC Harrisburg, as well as smaller hospitals and outpatient clinics. By researching CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, telehealth availability, and patient reviews, patients can make informed decisions that best meet their individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to discuss your specific needs and to get their recommendations. Managing hypertension effectively requires a proactive approach, and choosing the right healthcare provider is a crucial first step.