17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17049, Mc Alisterville, Pennsylvania is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17049**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 17049 (Hershey, Pennsylvania) to assess their capabilities in treating hypertension, considering factors such as quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options. This information is crucial for residents seeking the best possible care for this prevalent condition.

**Focus on Hershey Medical Center (Penn State Health)**

The cornerstone of healthcare in the area is Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center. This flagship hospital holds significant weight in the region's healthcare ecosystem. It is a large, tertiary care facility, equipped to handle complex medical cases, including those related to hypertension.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a commendable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a performance level that is considered above average in many key areas of patient care. The CMS rating is based on several factors, including mortality rates, safety of care, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Emergency room wait times at Hershey Medical Center can fluctuate. Publicly available data suggests that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume. It is advisable to check current wait times through online resources or by contacting the hospital directly before seeking emergency care.

Hershey Medical Center has a dedicated cardiology department, crucial for hypertension management. This department offers a full spectrum of services, from diagnosis and treatment to preventative care. Specialized clinics within the cardiology department may focus on specific conditions, such as heart failure or arrhythmias, which can be related to or exacerbated by hypertension.

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare, and Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings. These services can be particularly beneficial for hypertension patients, allowing for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication management, and virtual consultations with healthcare providers. The availability and scope of telehealth services can vary, so it's essential to inquire about specific offerings when seeking care.

**Other Hospitals in the Region: A Comparative Glance**

While Hershey Medical Center is the primary healthcare provider in the immediate vicinity of ZIP code 17049, other hospitals in the broader region may be relevant for residents seeking alternative options or specialized care.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, located in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, is another major hospital system in the area. While not directly within the 17049 ZIP code, it is easily accessible for many residents. UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg is a large, multi-hospital system with a significant presence in the region.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg's CMS star rating and ER wait times can vary depending on the specific hospital within the system. It is important to research the individual ratings and wait times for the specific hospital a patient is considering.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg offers cardiology services, including diagnosis and treatment of hypertension. The system also provides access to various specialty centers and programs, which may be relevant for patients with complex cardiovascular conditions.

Telehealth services are available through UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg. These services can provide convenient access to healthcare providers for follow-up appointments, medication management, and other non-emergency needs.

Another option to consider is WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital in Lebanon, Pennsylvania. While further afield, it still serves the broader region.

WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital also has a cardiology department. The availability of specialized programs and services may vary.

Telehealth services are available through WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. These services offer remote access to healthcare providers.

**Specialized Hypertension Care and Centers**

Beyond general cardiology departments, some hospitals may offer specialized programs or centers dedicated to hypertension management. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams, including cardiologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and other specialists, to provide comprehensive care.

Hershey Medical Center, with its comprehensive cardiology department, is likely to offer specialized services for hypertension. Patients should inquire about specific programs or clinics that focus on hypertension management.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital may also offer specialized programs for hypertension, although the scope and availability can vary.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for anyone experiencing a hypertensive crisis or other cardiovascular emergencies. The ability to receive timely medical attention can be life-saving.

Hershey Medical Center, as a Level I trauma center, is equipped to handle a wide range of emergencies. However, wait times can fluctuate.

UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital also have emergency departments. Patients should consider the proximity of these hospitals and their current wait times when making decisions about emergency care.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare access, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Remote monitoring of blood pressure and virtual consultations can help patients manage their condition more effectively.

Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg, and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital all offer telehealth services. The specific offerings may include virtual appointments, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication management support.

**Factors Beyond the Hospital Walls**

It's important to remember that factors beyond the hospital walls also influence hypertension management. Access to primary care physicians, pharmacies, and community resources plays a crucial role.

Residents of ZIP code 17049 have access to a variety of primary care physicians and specialists in the area. It is important to establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can monitor blood pressure, provide medication management, and refer patients to specialists when needed.

Local pharmacies provide access to medications and can offer support with medication adherence. Community resources, such as support groups and educational programs, can also be beneficial for patients managing hypertension.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care involves careful consideration of several factors. Hershey Medical Center, with its 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive cardiology department, and telehealth offerings, is a primary option. However, patients should also consider UPMC Pinnacle Harrisburg and WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital.

Patients should research the specific services offered by each hospital, including specialized programs, emergency room wait times, and telehealth options. Consult with a primary care physician for referrals and guidance.

Ultimately, the best hospital for hypertension care is the one that best meets the individual patient's needs and preferences, providing timely access to quality care and supporting effective management of this chronic condition.