18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 18834, New Milford, Pennsylvania is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near Wyalusing, PA (ZIP Code 18834)

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Wyalusing, Pennsylvania (ZIP Code 18834), assessing their capabilities in managing hypertension and related cardiovascular concerns. The analysis considers factors crucial for patient well-being, including quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and the availability of telehealth options.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

Wyalusing, a rural community, has limited immediate hospital options. The closest facilities providing comprehensive care are located in surrounding towns and cities. This review will prioritize hospitals within a roughly 50-mile radius, acknowledging that travel time is a critical consideration for patients, especially during a hypertensive crisis.

**Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital (Sayre, PA): A Flagship Facility**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, Pennsylvania, stands out as the most significant healthcare provider within this geographical area. This hospital is a flagship facility of the Guthrie Health System and serves as a regional referral center. Its size and comprehensive services make it a primary consideration for residents of the 18834 ZIP code.

**CMS Star Ratings and Quality Indicators:**

Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital holds a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of quality and patient safety exceeding the national average. Patients should understand that CMS ratings are a snapshot and may not fully capture the nuances of individual experiences. The hospital's performance on specific measures related to cardiovascular care is crucial.

**Cardiovascular Services at Guthrie Robert Packer:**

The hospital's cardiology department is a key asset for hypertension management. They offer a range of services, including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation programs. The availability of these services is vital for patients with hypertension who may develop complications like heart disease or stroke.

**Emergency Room Performance:**

ER wait times are a critical factor, particularly during hypertensive emergencies. While publicly available data can fluctuate, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital's ER wait times are generally reported to be within the national average. Patients should be aware that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle cardiovascular emergencies, with trained staff and rapid response protocols.

**Specialty Centers and Resources:**

Beyond cardiology, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital houses several specialty centers that can be beneficial for patients with hypertension. These include a diabetes center, a nephrology department (for kidney care, which is often impacted by hypertension), and a stroke center. The presence of these specialized services facilitates a multidisciplinary approach to patient care, which is often necessary for individuals with complex health needs.

**Telehealth Capabilities:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual appointments with cardiologists and other specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel and improving access to care. The hospital’s telehealth platform allows for remote monitoring of blood pressure and medication adherence, further enhancing patient management.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity:**

While Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital is the primary focus, other hospitals in the region offer varying levels of care. These facilities may be closer to Wyalusing, making them a viable option for certain patients.

**Towanda Memorial Hospital (Towanda, PA):**

Located closer to Wyalusing, Towanda Memorial Hospital is a smaller facility that provides essential healthcare services. While it may not offer the same breadth of specialized services as Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital, it serves as a convenient option for basic care and initial stabilization.

**Cardiovascular Services at Towanda Memorial:**

Towanda Memorial Hospital offers basic cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and emergency care for cardiovascular events. Patients with complex hypertension or related conditions may be referred to Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital for more specialized treatment.

**Emergency Room Performance at Towanda Memorial:**

Towanda Memorial Hospital typically has shorter ER wait times compared to larger hospitals, making it a suitable option for patients needing immediate care. However, the hospital's resources may be limited during a severe cardiovascular emergency.

**Telehealth at Towanda Memorial:**

Towanda Memorial Hospital also offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists. This can be particularly useful for patients who have difficulty traveling to larger hospitals.

**Geisinger Community Medical Center (Scranton, PA):**

While further away, Geisinger Community Medical Center in Scranton, PA, is a larger hospital that could be considered, especially for patients seeking specific specialized care.

**Cardiovascular Services at Geisinger Community Medical Center:**

Geisinger Community Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cardiology program, including advanced cardiac procedures and a dedicated heart and vascular institute. Patients with complex hypertension or related cardiovascular conditions may find this facility a valuable option.

**Emergency Room Performance at Geisinger Community Medical Center:**

The ER wait times at Geisinger Community Medical Center are generally longer compared to the smaller hospitals in the area. However, the hospital's ER is well-equipped to handle cardiovascular emergencies.

**Telehealth at Geisinger Community Medical Center:**

Geisinger Community Medical Center offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists. This can provide patients with convenient access to care.

**Evaluating Hypertension Care: Key Considerations:**

When assessing hospitals for hypertension care, several factors are critical:

* **Cardiology Expertise:** The presence of board-certified cardiologists and access to advanced diagnostic and interventional procedures is essential.
* **Emergency Room Efficiency:** Timely access to emergency care is crucial during hypertensive crises.
* **Specialty Support:** The availability of related specialties, such as nephrology, diabetes care, and stroke centers, is vital for managing complications.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can improve access to care, particularly for patients in rural areas.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** While not a primary factor in this review, patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care and patient satisfaction.

**Conclusion:**

For residents of the 18834 ZIP code, Guthrie Robert Packer Hospital in Sayre, PA, is the leading choice for comprehensive hypertension management. Its robust cardiology department, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities make it a strong contender. Towanda Memorial Hospital offers a closer, albeit more limited, option for basic care. Geisinger Community Medical Center, although further away, provides advanced cardiovascular services. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the severity of their condition when choosing a hospital. Consulting with a primary care physician or cardiologist is essential to determine the most appropriate healthcare provider for their specific circumstances. Ultimately, proactive management of hypertension, combined with access to quality healthcare, is key to improving cardiovascular health and overall well-being.