36318, Coffee Springs, Alabama Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 36318, Coffee Springs, Alabama is 32 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP Code 36318)

Navigating hypertension care requires a multi-faceted approach, encompassing access to specialists, diagnostic capabilities, and ongoing management support. For residents of Enterprise, Alabama (ZIP code 36318), understanding the local healthcare landscape is crucial for effective hypertension management. This review analyzes the available resources, focusing on key metrics like hospital quality, specialty care, and telehealth options.

**Regional Healthcare Overview**

Enterprise, Alabama, is primarily served by hospitals within a reasonable radius. The closest major medical centers are in Dothan, approximately 30 miles southeast. These facilities represent the primary options for acute care and specialized services. Smaller community hospitals and clinics in Enterprise and surrounding towns provide a crucial network of primary care physicians and outpatient services.

**Flagship Hospital Analysis: Southeast Health (Dothan)**

Southeast Health in Dothan stands out as the most prominent healthcare provider near Enterprise. This facility is a regional referral center and offers a wide range of medical specialties. Southeast Health has earned a **3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)**. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a generally acceptable level of quality and patient safety. The CMS star rating is based on several factors, including mortality rates, readmission rates, safety of care, patient experience, and timely and effective care.

Southeast Health's cardiology department is a key asset for hypertension patients. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic testing (echocardiograms, stress tests, cardiac catheterization), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stent placement), and electrophysiology services (for arrhythmias). The hospital also has a dedicated cardiac rehabilitation program to aid in post-event recovery and lifestyle modification.

**ER Wait Times and Access to Care**

Access to timely care is critical, especially in hypertensive emergencies. Southeast Health's emergency room is the primary point of entry for acute cardiac issues. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, it is advisable to check the hospital's website or use online platforms like Google to get the most up-to-date information. Be aware that wait times can be longer during peak hours and on weekends.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Beyond cardiology, effective hypertension management often requires collaboration with other specialists. Southeast Health provides access to nephrologists (for kidney-related complications), endocrinologists (for hormonal imbalances), and neurologists (for stroke prevention and management). The hospital’s comprehensive approach to patient care ensures a multidisciplinary approach to managing complex hypertension cases.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is increasingly important for chronic disease management, including hypertension. Southeast Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. This allows patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for patients in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent travel. The hospital's website and patient portal provide information on available telehealth services and how to schedule appointments.

**Community Hospital and Clinic Options**

Enterprise has a number of community hospitals and clinics that provide primary care services. These facilities are often the first point of contact for hypertension patients. They offer routine checkups, medication management, and referrals to specialists when necessary. Enterprise Medical Center is a local option to consider.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Provider**

When selecting a healthcare provider, several factors should be considered:

* **Physician Qualifications:** Ensure the physician is board-certified in their specialty.
* **Hospital Affiliations:** Understand which hospitals your primary care physician is affiliated with, as this determines your access to specialized care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the provider accepts your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Research patient reviews and ratings to get insights into patient satisfaction and the quality of care.
* **Accessibility:** Consider the distance to the provider's office and the availability of appointments.

**Specific Hypertension-Related Services to Inquire About**

When contacting a potential provider, ask specific questions about their hypertension management services:

* **Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Do they offer home blood pressure monitoring programs and provide guidance on proper technique?
* **Medication Management:** How do they manage medication adjustments and refills?
* **Lifestyle Counseling:** Do they offer nutritional counseling and exercise programs?
* **Patient Education:** Do they provide educational materials and resources on hypertension?
* **Referral Network:** What is their network of specialists for referrals if needed?

**The Importance of Lifestyle Modifications**

Effective hypertension management goes beyond medication. Lifestyle modifications are crucial for controlling blood pressure and reducing the risk of complications. These include:

* **Dietary Changes:** Following the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
* **Regular Exercise:** Aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if overweight or obese.
* **Sodium Reduction:** Limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day.
* **Alcohol Moderation:** Limiting alcohol consumption to moderate levels (up to one drink per day for women and up to two drinks per day for men).
* **Smoking Cessation:** Quitting smoking is essential for overall cardiovascular health.

**Conclusion**

For residents of Enterprise, Alabama (36318), Southeast Health in Dothan provides the most comprehensive healthcare resources for hypertension management. However, the local community hospitals and clinics are important for primary care and ongoing support. Patients should actively research providers, understand their insurance coverage, and engage in lifestyle modifications to effectively manage their condition. Regular communication with healthcare providers, including primary care physicians, cardiologists, and other specialists, is essential for successful hypertension control and reducing the risk of complications. While Southeast Health's CMS rating provides a general indication of quality, individual patient experiences can vary. Therefore, it is crucial to gather information, ask questions, and actively participate in your own healthcare journey. Finally, the availability of telehealth services offers a convenient option for ongoing monitoring and support.