17254, Scotland, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17254, Scotland, Pennsylvania is 83 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Hotspots: A Review of Hospitals Near Shippensburg, PA (ZIP Code 17254)

Navigating the healthcare landscape, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, requires a keen understanding of available resources. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Shippensburg, Pennsylvania (ZIP code 17254), offering insights into their capabilities, specialties, and performance metrics relevant to hypertension care. Data is current as of October 26, 2023, and is drawn from publicly available sources like the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), hospital websites, and other reliable reporting agencies.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Choice**

Shippensburg, a borough in south-central Pennsylvania, is strategically located, providing access to a range of healthcare facilities. Proximity to larger cities like Harrisburg and Chambersburg expands the options for specialized care. This review will prioritize hospitals within a 30-45 minute driving distance, acknowledging that travel times can vary depending on traffic and specific locations.

**Flagship Facilities and CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

A crucial indicator of hospital quality is the CMS Star Rating. This rating system, based on a five-star scale, evaluates hospitals on various factors, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. While a single star rating doesn't tell the whole story, it offers a valuable starting point.

**UPMC Carlisle:** Located approximately 20 minutes from Shippensburg, UPMC Carlisle is a significant healthcare provider in the region. As of the latest CMS data, UPMC Carlisle holds a **3-star rating**. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across multiple domains, including patient experience, which is a critical component of hypertension management. Patients with hypertension often require ongoing monitoring and education, making the patient-provider relationship paramount. UPMC Carlisle's focus on primary care and internal medicine is relevant to hypertension care.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** Situated roughly 25 minutes from Shippensburg, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital is another key player. WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital currently boasts a **4-star rating** from CMS. This higher rating suggests a stronger performance across a broader range of quality metrics. The hospital's emphasis on cardiovascular services, including cardiology and vascular surgery, is particularly relevant to hypertension patients, as uncontrolled hypertension can lead to serious cardiovascular complications.

**Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center:** Located further afield, approximately 45 minutes from Shippensburg, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center is another option. As of the latest CMS data, Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center holds a **3-star rating**. This facility offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology, which are important for patients with hypertension.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a significant factor, especially during hypertensive crises. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, understanding general trends is important. Websites like Google and hospital websites often provide estimated wait times. However, these are estimates and can change.

**UPMC Carlisle:** UPMC Carlisle's ER wait times can vary. Checking online resources for the most up-to-date information is essential. Patients experiencing severe hypertension symptoms should prioritize immediate medical attention.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital's ER is another option. Checking online resources for the most up-to-date information is essential.

**Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center:** Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center's ER is another option. Checking online resources for the most up-to-date information is essential.

**Specialty Centers and Services: Tailoring Care to Needs**

Beyond general hospital services, specialized centers and programs can significantly enhance hypertension management.

**Cardiology Departments:** All the hospitals mentioned above have cardiology departments. These departments are crucial for diagnosing and treating hypertension-related complications, such as heart disease and stroke. Look for hospitals with board-certified cardiologists and access to advanced diagnostic tools like echocardiograms and cardiac catheterization.

**Vascular Surgery:** WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital offers vascular surgery services. Vascular health is closely linked to hypertension, and vascular surgeons can address conditions like peripheral artery disease, which can be exacerbated by high blood pressure.

**Diabetes Education Centers:** Hypertension and diabetes often co-exist. Hospitals with diabetes education centers can provide valuable resources for managing both conditions.

**Renal Services:** Kidney disease is another potential complication of hypertension. Hospitals with nephrology departments can provide specialized care for patients with kidney-related issues.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows for remote monitoring, medication management, and virtual consultations.

**UPMC Carlisle:** UPMC offers telehealth services, including virtual visits for primary care and some specialty appointments. Check their website for specific offerings related to cardiology or internal medicine.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** WellSpan Health has expanded its telehealth offerings. Check their website for specific offerings related to cardiology or internal medicine.

**Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center:** Penn State Health offers telehealth services, including virtual visits. Check their website for specific offerings related to cardiology or internal medicine.

**Hospital Websites and Resources:**

Hospital websites are the primary source of information. These websites provide information about services, physician directories, and patient portals.

**UPMC Carlisle:** Visit www.upmc.com/locations/hospitals/carlisle for information about services, physician directories, and patient portals.

**WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital:** Visit www.wellspan.org/locations/wellspan-chambersburg-hospital for information about services, physician directories, and patient portals.

**Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center:** Visit https://www.pennstatehealth.org/locations/holy-spirit-medical-center for information about services, physician directories, and patient portals.

**Patient Experience: The Human Element**

Beyond metrics and ratings, the patient experience is crucial. Consider the following:

* **Communication:** Does the hospital staff communicate clearly and effectively?
* **Accessibility:** Is the hospital easy to navigate and access?
* **Patient Education:** Does the hospital provide adequate education about hypertension management?
* **Support Services:** Does the hospital offer support groups or other resources for patients with hypertension?

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing a hospital for hypertension care involves careful consideration. Evaluate the following:

* **Proximity:** Consider travel time and convenience.
* **CMS Star Rating:** Use this as a starting point for assessing quality.
* **Specialty Services:** Ensure the hospital offers the necessary cardiology, nephrology, and other relevant services.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Explore telehealth options for remote monitoring and consultations.
* **Patient Experience:** Read online reviews and gather feedback from other patients.
* **Physician Selection:** Research physicians and their expertise in hypertension management.

**Conclusion:**

The hospitals near Shippensburg, PA, offer a range of options for hypertension care. UPMC Carlisle, WellSpan Chambersburg Hospital, and Penn State Health Holy Spirit Medical Center are all viable choices, each with its strengths and weaknesses. By carefully evaluating the factors outlined in this review, patients can make informed decisions and find the best possible care for managing their hypertension. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to develop a personalized treatment plan.