18225, Harleigh, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 18225, Harleigh, Pennsylvania is 80 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 18225

Finding the right hospital for hypertension management can be a life-or-death decision. This review analyzes the hospitals nearest to ZIP code 18225 (which is in the Hazleton, Pennsylvania area), focusing on their capabilities in treating high blood pressure, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options. The goal is to provide a fact-rich guide to help residents make informed healthcare choices.

**The Landscape: A Regional Overview**

The Hazleton area, while not densely populated with major medical centers, offers a range of healthcare options. Residents often look to hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, including those in Wilkes-Barre, Scranton, and Allentown. This review will consider these areas to provide a comprehensive assessment.

**Lehigh Valley Health Network (LVHN) - Hazleton (Not a Flagship, but a Local Option)**

LVHN-Hazleton, formerly known as Hazleton General Hospital, is the closest hospital to the 18225 ZIP code. It’s a community hospital that provides essential services, including an emergency room and internal medicine. However, it’s important to note that LVHN-Hazleton is not a flagship hospital within the larger Lehigh Valley Health Network.

* **CMS Star Rating:** LVHN-Hazleton does not have a CMS star rating. This indicates that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) does not have enough data to assess the hospital's overall quality of care.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Data on ER wait times can fluctuate. It's crucial to check the hospital's website or a third-party source like [Insert Relevant Website, e.g., ERWaitTimes.com] for the most up-to-date information.
* **Hypertension Specific Services:** LVHN-Hazleton likely offers general internal medicine services that include hypertension management. However, it may not have a dedicated hypertension clinic or specialized cardiology programs compared to larger regional hospitals.
* **Telehealth:** Telehealth options at LVHN-Hazleton are likely available, but they may be limited compared to larger hospitals within the network. Patients can inquire about virtual appointments with their primary care physicians or specialists.

**Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest (Flagship Hospital - Allentown)**

Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest, located in Allentown, is the flagship hospital of the Lehigh Valley Health Network and is a significant regional medical center. It’s a longer drive from Hazleton (approximately an hour), but its comprehensive services make it a strong contender for complex cases.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest has a CMS star rating. It's essential to check the most recent CMS data, as ratings can change. The hospital's rating reflects its performance across various quality metrics.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** As a larger hospital, ER wait times at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest can vary. Real-time data is available on the LVHN website.
* **Specialty Centers:** Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest boasts a robust cardiology program, including a dedicated heart and vascular center. This center offers comprehensive services for hypertension, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and interventional procedures.
* **Telehealth:** LVHN has invested heavily in telehealth. Patients can access virtual appointments with cardiologists, primary care physicians, and other specialists. The network also offers remote patient monitoring programs for hypertension management.

**Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center (Wilkes-Barre)**

Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center in Wilkes-Barre is another major hospital option within a reasonable driving distance from Hazleton. It's part of the Geisinger Health System, known for its integrated approach to healthcare.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center has a CMS star rating. Check the most recent CMS data for the current rating.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** ER wait times at Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are subject to change. Current wait times are often available on the Geisinger website or through third-party sources.
* **Hypertension Specific Services:** Geisinger's cardiology program offers comprehensive hypertension management, including specialized clinics and access to cardiologists. The hospital also participates in research and clinical trials related to cardiovascular health.
* **Telehealth:** Geisinger is a leader in telehealth. Patients can access virtual appointments with cardiologists, primary care physicians, and other specialists. The health system also has remote patient monitoring programs.

**Moses Taylor Hospital (Scranton)**

Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton is another option, though it may be slightly further away than other options.

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check the most recent CMS data for the current rating.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Current wait times are often available on the hospital's website or through third-party sources.
* **Hypertension Specific Services:** Moses Taylor Hospital offers cardiology services, including hypertension management. However, the scope of services may be less extensive than at Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest or Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center.
* **Telehealth:** Moses Taylor Hospital likely offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with primary care physicians and specialists.

**Assessing the Options: Key Considerations**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension management, several factors are crucial:

* **Specialized Expertise:** Does the hospital have a dedicated cardiology program or hypertension clinic?
* **Access to Specialists:** Does the hospital have cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists), and other specialists who can manage hypertension-related complications?
* **Technology and Resources:** Does the hospital have the latest diagnostic equipment and treatment options?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Can you access virtual appointments and remote monitoring programs?
* **Convenience and Accessibility:** Consider the distance, traffic, and ease of access to the hospital.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the quality of care.

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

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern, especially during a hypertensive crisis. While wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to consider this factor when choosing a hospital. Websites like ERWaitTimes.com can provide real-time data. However, it's essential to remember that these are estimates and can change.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for hypertension management. It allows patients to monitor their blood pressure at home, receive virtual consultations, and adjust medications remotely. When choosing a hospital, inquire about its telehealth capabilities and remote patient monitoring programs.

**The Bottom Line: Making the Right Choice**

For residents of the 18225 ZIP code, the best hospital for hypertension management depends on individual needs and preferences. LVHN-Hazleton provides local access, but may not offer the same level of specialized care as larger regional hospitals. Lehigh Valley Hospital - Cedar Crest and Geisinger Wyoming Valley Medical Center are strong contenders, offering comprehensive cardiology programs and telehealth options. Moses Taylor Hospital in Scranton is another option to consider. Thorough research, including checking CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth availability, is essential to make an informed decision. Consulting with your primary care physician is also vital to determine the best hospital for your specific needs.