19153, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 19153, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Philadelphia Hospitals Near 19153

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review focuses on hospitals near the 19153 ZIP code in Philadelphia, offering a fact-rich assessment to help patients make informed decisions. We'll examine key factors like hospital quality, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options, all crucial for effective hypertension management.

**Hospital Quality and CMS Star Ratings:**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, a valuable tool for gauging overall hospital quality. These ratings, based on various metrics including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience, offer a snapshot of a hospital's performance.

**Penn Presbyterian Medical Center:** Located relatively close to 19153, Penn Presbyterian, part of the University of Pennsylvania Health System, boasts a respectable CMS star rating. While specific ratings fluctuate, consistently high scores indicate a commitment to quality care. Patients with hypertension can benefit from the hospital's comprehensive cardiovascular services, including specialized cardiology units and access to cutting-edge treatments.

**Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP):** Also within the University of Pennsylvania Health System, HUP, a flagship hospital, often garners a high CMS star rating. As a major teaching hospital, HUP has access to the latest research and treatments, which can be particularly beneficial for complex hypertension cases. Its cardiology department is renowned, offering a range of diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.

**Jefferson Health – Thomas Jefferson University Hospital:** Another major player in the Philadelphia healthcare scene, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital is a large academic medical center. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of its commitment to quality. Patients with hypertension can expect access to a multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists, essential for managing the condition effectively.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor:**

Emergency room wait times are a significant consideration, especially during hypertensive crises. Prolonged waits can exacerbate the condition and delay critical interventions. Data on ER wait times is readily available through various sources, including hospital websites and third-party platforms.

**Penn Presbyterian:** Generally, Penn Presbyterian's ER wait times are competitive, but can vary depending on the time of day and the severity of the patient load. Checking real-time wait times online or via phone before heading to the ER is always recommended.

**Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP):** HUP, as a high-volume hospital, can experience longer ER wait times, particularly during peak hours. Patients should be prepared for potential delays and consider alternative urgent care options if their condition is not immediately life-threatening.

**Jefferson Health – Thomas Jefferson University Hospital:** Jefferson's ER wait times are also variable. The hospital's large size and busy emergency department mean that wait times can fluctuate. Patients should proactively check wait times and, if possible, seek care at a less congested facility for non-emergency situations.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management:**

Effective hypertension management often requires access to specialized care. Hospitals near 19153 offer a range of specialty centers that can address various aspects of the condition.

**Cardiology Centers:** All the flagship hospitals mentioned above have robust cardiology departments. These departments offer comprehensive services, including diagnostic testing (echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional procedures (angioplasty, stenting), and advanced treatments for heart failure and other cardiovascular complications associated with hypertension.

**Nephrology Centers:** Hypertension can significantly impact kidney health. Nephrology centers specialize in diagnosing and treating kidney diseases, including those caused or worsened by hypertension. Patients with hypertension-related kidney complications can find specialized care at these centers.

**Endocrinology Centers:** Hormonal imbalances can contribute to hypertension. Endocrinology centers focus on hormonal disorders, including those that may influence blood pressure. These centers can provide specialized evaluations and treatments for conditions like hyperthyroidism and Cushing's syndrome, which can elevate blood pressure.

**Telehealth Options: Expanding Access:**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, offering convenient access to medical professionals. Hospitals near 19153 have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing patients with remote consultations, medication management, and educational resources.

**Penn Presbyterian:** Penn Medicine has a well-developed telehealth program, offering virtual appointments with cardiologists and other specialists. Patients can use telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and remote monitoring of their blood pressure.

**Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania (HUP):** HUP also provides extensive telehealth services, including virtual cardiology consultations. Patients can access telehealth for routine check-ups, medication adjustments, and education on managing their hypertension.

**Jefferson Health – Thomas Jefferson University Hospital:** Jefferson Health has embraced telehealth, offering virtual appointments with cardiologists and other specialists. Telehealth can be a convenient option for patients needing routine check-ups or medication management.

**Specific Telehealth Statistics:** Unfortunately, specific, real-time telehealth statistics (like the percentage of hypertension patients utilizing telehealth or average wait times for virtual appointments) are dynamic and difficult to pinpoint. However, patients should actively inquire about telehealth availability during their initial consultation.

**Additional Considerations:**

**Insurance Coverage:** Patients should verify their insurance coverage for the hospitals and specialists they are considering. Insurance plans vary, and some may have preferred providers or networks.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Online patient reviews can provide valuable insights into a hospital's reputation and patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and U.S. News & World Report offer patient ratings and reviews.

**Accessibility and Transportation:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access, especially if transportation is a concern. Public transportation options and parking availability should be factored into the decision-making process.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a crucial decision. Hospitals near the 19153 ZIP code, including Penn Presbyterian, HUP, and Jefferson Health, offer a range of services and resources. By carefully considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options, patients can make informed choices and find the best possible care for their condition. Remember to research specific programs, check wait times, and discuss telehealth options with your healthcare provider to create a personalized plan for effective hypertension management. This review provides a starting point, but individual needs and preferences should always guide the final decision.