17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17228, Harrisonville, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Chambersburg, PA (ZIP Code 17228)

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, is crucial. This review analyzes hospitals near Chambersburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17228), focusing on factors relevant to hypertension care, including quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth availability. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid informed decision-making for individuals managing high blood pressure.

**Defining the Scope and Key Metrics**

This review prioritizes hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Chambersburg, PA. The analysis centers on metrics directly impacting hypertension management. These include: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings (a widely recognized measure of overall hospital quality), emergency room wait times (a proxy for immediate access to care), the presence of specialized cardiology and nephrology centers (essential for comprehensive hypertension treatment), and the availability of telehealth services (increasingly important for ongoing monitoring and medication management).

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The primary hospital serving the Chambersburg area is **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital**, located directly in Chambersburg. As of the latest publicly available data, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital holds a **3-star CMS rating**. This rating reflects overall performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it is important to consider other factors in conjunction with this rating.

**Emergency Room Efficiency: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly for hypertensive crises or related complications. Unfortunately, publicly available data on real-time ER wait times is often limited. However, information can be gleaned from sources like the Hospital Compare website and local news reports. It is recommended to contact the hospitals directly for the most up-to-date information. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital typically reports its ER wait times on its website. These times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and overall patient volume.

**Specialty Centers: Cardiology and Nephrology**

Effective hypertension management often necessitates access to specialized care. **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital** has a cardiology department, providing services such as diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms), interventional cardiology, and cardiac rehabilitation. This is crucial for diagnosing and treating heart-related complications of hypertension. The hospital also offers nephrology services, essential for addressing kidney-related issues often associated with high blood pressure. The presence of these specialties within the same hospital system facilitates coordinated care.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows for remote monitoring, medication management, and virtual consultations. **WellSpan Health**, the parent organization of WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, has invested in telehealth services. The availability of telehealth options can vary depending on the specific provider and the patient's insurance coverage. Patients should inquire directly with their WellSpan providers about available telehealth options for hypertension management, including remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual follow-up appointments.

**Beyond Chambersburg: Regional Options**

While WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is the primary local provider, it is essential to consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance for specialized care or if a second opinion is desired.

**WellSpan York Hospital** is located approximately 60 miles east of Chambersburg. As of the latest data, WellSpan York Hospital has a **3-star CMS rating**. This hospital offers a more extensive range of specialty services, including a comprehensive cardiology program and advanced nephrology services. While the travel time is longer, it might be a consideration for individuals requiring specialized interventions.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center**, located approximately 70 miles northeast of Chambersburg, is a major academic medical center. It consistently receives high ratings and has a **4-star CMS rating**. Hershey Medical Center offers a renowned cardiology department, including advanced cardiac imaging, electrophysiology, and cardiac surgery. They also have a robust nephrology program. While the travel distance is significant, Hershey Medical Center may be a consideration for complex cases or those seeking access to cutting-edge research and treatment options.

**Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital** is located approximately 70 miles east of Chambersburg. As of the latest data, Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital has a **3-star CMS rating**. This hospital offers a comprehensive cardiology program and nephrology services.

**Telehealth Availability at Regional Hospitals**

The regional hospitals also offer telehealth services. **WellSpan York Hospital** and **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center** both have established telehealth programs, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management. Patients should check with their individual providers to determine the availability of telehealth options.

**Factors Beyond Ratings: Patient Experience and Access**

CMS star ratings provide a valuable overview, but they do not capture the entire picture. Patient experience is crucial. Consider factors like hospital staff responsiveness, communication clarity, and overall satisfaction. Online reviews and patient testimonials can offer valuable insights. Access to care is another critical factor. Consider insurance coverage, appointment availability, and transportation options.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management involves a multi-faceted approach. Start by assessing your individual needs and preferences. Consider the severity of your hypertension, any co-existing conditions, and your access to transportation. Contact the hospitals directly to inquire about specific services, appointment availability, and telehealth options. Discuss your needs with your primary care physician, who can provide recommendations and referrals.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

For residents of Chambersburg, PA (ZIP code 17228), **WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital** serves as the primary healthcare provider. Its 3-star CMS rating reflects average performance, and its cardiology and nephrology departments are essential for hypertension management. Consider regional hospitals, such as **WellSpan York Hospital**, **Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center**, and **Geisinger Holy Spirit Hospital**, for specialized care or second opinions. Remember to factor in ER wait times, telehealth availability, patient experience, and access to care when making your decision. By carefully evaluating these factors, individuals with hypertension can make informed choices and receive the best possible care to manage their condition effectively.