17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 17867, Rebuck, Pennsylvania is 61 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Selinsgrove, PA (ZIP Code 17867)

Finding the right hospital for managing hypertension is crucial. This review examines the healthcare landscape near Selinsgrove, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 17867), focusing on key factors like hospital quality, accessibility, and specialized services relevant to hypertension care. We'll delve into the strengths and weaknesses of nearby facilities, providing information to help you make informed decisions about your health.

**Proximity and Primary Options**

Selinsgrove, PA, is a relatively rural area. Residents have a few primary hospital options within a reasonable driving distance. The most prominent are Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA, and Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA. These facilities serve as critical hubs for medical care in the region.

**Evangelical Community Hospital: A Closer Look**

Evangelical Community Hospital in Lewisburg, PA, is the closest major hospital to Selinsgrove. It's a community-focused facility offering a range of services. While Evangelical Community Hospital doesn't have a CMS star rating currently available (as of October 26, 2023), it's essential to consider other quality metrics.

Evangelical Community Hospital has a comprehensive cardiology program, which is directly relevant to hypertension management. Their cardiology services include diagnostic testing, such as echocardiograms and stress tests, which are vital for evaluating heart health in hypertensive patients. They also offer interventional cardiology procedures, including angioplasty and stenting, for patients with related conditions.

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it's worth checking their website or calling the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information. Shorter wait times generally indicate better efficiency and potentially faster access to care in a crisis.

Evangelical Community Hospital also offers telehealth services. Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. These services can include virtual consultations with cardiologists, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas.

**Geisinger Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Geisinger Medical Center in Danville, PA, is a larger, more comprehensive facility, acting as a regional referral center. It is further away than Evangelical, but it offers a wider array of specialized services. Geisinger Medical Center has a 4-star rating from CMS (as of October 26, 2023). This rating reflects overall quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience.

Geisinger's cardiology program is extensive, encompassing all aspects of cardiovascular care. They have a dedicated heart institute, which is often a sign of advanced capabilities and specialized expertise. The institute is likely to have a team of cardiologists, cardiac surgeons, and other specialists focused on treating heart conditions, including hypertension-related complications.

Emergency room wait times at Geisinger Medical Center can vary. It's advisable to check their website or call for the most current information, as wait times can be longer at larger facilities. However, the hospital’s size and resources often translate to a broader scope of care and the ability to handle complex cases.

Geisinger is a leader in telehealth. They have a robust telehealth program, including virtual visits with cardiologists, remote patient monitoring for blood pressure and other vital signs, and educational resources for patients with hypertension. This focus on telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients living in more rural areas, providing easier access to specialists and ongoing care.

**Specialty Centers and Resources**

Both Evangelical Community Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center have access to specialty centers. These centers can offer specialized care for hypertension-related complications, such as kidney disease or stroke.

For example, both hospitals likely have nephrology departments for the treatment of kidney disease, which is a common complication of hypertension. They also have neurology departments for the treatment of stroke, another significant risk associated with high blood pressure.

Access to rehabilitation services is also important. Both facilities offer physical and occupational therapy for patients recovering from stroke or other complications of hypertension. Cardiac rehabilitation programs are also available to help patients improve their cardiovascular health.

**Telehealth Considerations**

Telehealth is a game-changer for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, which can improve access to care, especially for those living in rural areas or with mobility issues.

When evaluating telehealth options, consider the following:

* **Availability of virtual appointments:** Can you schedule virtual visits with your cardiologist or primary care physician?
* **Remote monitoring capabilities:** Does the hospital offer remote blood pressure monitoring or other remote health tracking tools?
* **Medication management:** Can your provider manage your medications through telehealth?
* **Patient portal access:** Does the hospital have a patient portal where you can access your medical records, communicate with your provider, and manage your appointments?

**Accessibility and Patient Experience**

Accessibility is another important factor. Consider the following:

* **Driving distance:** How far are you willing to travel for medical care?
* **Transportation options:** Do you have reliable transportation, or will you need to rely on public transportation or other services?
* **Appointment availability:** How easy is it to schedule appointments with specialists?
* **Patient reviews:** Read online reviews to get a sense of other patients' experiences with the hospital.

Patient experience is also crucial. Look for hospitals with a reputation for providing compassionate and patient-centered care.

**Other Hospitals in the Area**

While Evangelical and Geisinger are the primary options, it's also worth considering other hospitals in the broader region, such as UPMC Susquehanna in Williamsport, PA, or other smaller community hospitals. These facilities may offer specific services or have shorter wait times, but it is essential to verify the quality of care and the availability of services.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for managing hypertension is a personal decision. Consider the following factors:

* **Hospital quality:** Review CMS star ratings and other quality metrics.
* **Specialized services:** Ensure the hospital offers the cardiology services you need.
* **Telehealth options:** Evaluate the availability of telehealth services.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the driving distance, transportation options, and appointment availability.
* **Patient experience:** Read online reviews to get a sense of other patients' experiences.

For residents near Selinsgrove, PA, Evangelical Community Hospital and Geisinger Medical Center are the primary options. Geisinger Medical Center, with its 4-star CMS rating and comprehensive cardiology program, may be the best choice for those seeking a wider range of specialized services. Evangelical Community Hospital, being closer, offers a more convenient option with a strong focus on community care. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. It's always best to consult with your primary care physician to determine the best course of action for your specific health situation.