17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17120, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 17120

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 17120 (Harrisburg, Pennsylvania), providing a fact-rich overview to aid in selecting the best care for those battling high blood pressure. The information includes details on CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a comprehensive picture for patients and their families.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center (Hershey, PA): A Flagship Institution**

Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, located a short drive from 17120, stands as a major player in the region. It's a flagship hospital, renowned for its comprehensive services and research focus. The hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the quality of care provided, including measures related to patient safety, mortality rates, and readmission rates. While not a perfect score, it signifies a commitment to quality.

The Hershey Medical Center houses a dedicated cardiology department, crucial for hypertension management. This department offers a range of services, including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms), interventional procedures (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation. The hospital's robust infrastructure supports advanced treatments and complex cases.

Emergency room wait times are a key consideration. While precise, real-time data fluctuates, Hershey Medical Center generally aims to keep wait times within a reasonable timeframe. Patients can often find average wait times on hospital websites or third-party platforms, providing a sense of the potential wait before receiving medical attention.

Telehealth is increasingly important. Hershey Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management for hypertension patients. Telehealth allows for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication adjustments, and virtual consultations, enhancing convenience and accessibility. The hospital's telehealth platform also facilitates remote patient monitoring, allowing clinicians to track vital signs and provide timely interventions.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital (Harrisburg, PA): A Local Option**

Closer to the 17120 ZIP code, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital provides another option. It offers a broad range of services, including a cardiology department. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital currently holds a 3-star CMS rating. This rating indicates an acceptable level of care, with areas for potential improvement.

The hospital's cardiology department provides diagnostic and treatment options for hypertension and related cardiovascular issues. Patients can access services like stress tests, cardiac catheterization, and medication management. The proximity of UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is a key advantage for residents in the 17120 area, offering convenient access to care.

Emergency room wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, like other facilities, vary. Patients can check online resources or contact the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information. The hospital strives to provide timely care, and understanding potential wait times is essential for planning.

UPMC Harrisburg Hospital is also developing its telehealth capabilities. Telehealth services are becoming increasingly integrated into routine care, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. This is particularly useful for hypertension patients who require ongoing monitoring and medication adjustments.

**Holy Spirit Hospital (Camp Hill, PA): A Community-Focused Approach**

Holy Spirit Hospital, located in nearby Camp Hill, offers a community-focused approach to healthcare. It provides a range of services, including cardiology. Holy Spirit Hospital has a 3-star CMS rating.

The hospital's cardiology department offers diagnostic and treatment options for hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions. Patients can access services like echocardiograms, stress tests, and medication management. Holy Spirit Hospital's location provides convenient access for residents in the 17120 area.

Emergency room wait times at Holy Spirit Hospital are subject to fluctuations. Patients can consult online resources or contact the hospital directly for the most current information. The hospital works to provide timely care.

Holy Spirit Hospital is expanding its telehealth offerings. Telehealth services are becoming increasingly integrated into routine care, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. This is particularly useful for hypertension patients who require ongoing monitoring and medication adjustments.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond general cardiology services, hospitals in the area often offer specialized programs relevant to hypertension management. These may include:

* **Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs:** These programs are designed to help patients recover from cardiac events and manage their risk factors, including hypertension. They typically involve exercise, education, and counseling.
* **Preventive Cardiology Programs:** These programs focus on preventing cardiovascular disease through lifestyle modifications, risk factor management, and early detection.
* **Heart Failure Clinics:** These clinics provide specialized care for patients with heart failure, often a consequence of uncontrolled hypertension.

**Telehealth: The Future of Hypertension Management**

Telehealth is rapidly transforming healthcare, and its impact on hypertension management is significant. Key advantages include:

* **Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Patients can use home blood pressure monitors and transmit readings to their healthcare providers, allowing for proactive medication adjustments.
* **Virtual Consultations:** Patients can have virtual appointments with their doctors to discuss their blood pressure readings, medications, and lifestyle modifications.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth platforms can facilitate medication refills and provide reminders to take medications.
* **Educational Resources:** Telehealth platforms can provide patients with educational materials about hypertension, healthy lifestyle choices, and medication adherence.

**Navigating the Choices: Considerations for Patients**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension care, patients should consider several factors:

* **Proximity:** The convenience of location is important, especially for regular appointments and follow-up care.
* **Hospital Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a general indication of quality, but they should be considered alongside other factors.
* **Cardiology Services:** Ensure the hospital offers the specific services needed, such as diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Assess the hospital's telehealth offerings, as they can enhance convenience and accessibility.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Consider potential wait times, especially if seeking immediate care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Confirm that the hospital accepts the patient's insurance plan.
* **Personal Preferences:** Consider factors like the hospital's reputation, patient reviews, and the overall patient experience.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Selecting the right hospital for hypertension care is a crucial decision. This review has provided a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 17120, including Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center, UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, and Holy Spirit Hospital. By considering the factors discussed, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, patients can make informed choices that support their health and well-being. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to determine the best course of action for your individual needs.