36442, Florala, Alabama Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 36442, Florala, Alabama is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Decoding Healthcare Options Near Atmore, Alabama (ZIP Code 36442)

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, demands informed choices. This review delves into the hospitals serving the Atmore, Alabama (ZIP code 36442) area, providing a fact-rich assessment to help you understand your options. The focus is on key factors relevant to hypertension care: hospital quality, emergency room efficiency, access to specialized services, and the availability of telehealth.

**Understanding the Landscape:**

The primary hospitals serving Atmore and the surrounding Escambia County region include D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital in Brewton, Alabama, and Atmore Community Hospital, located within the 36442 ZIP code. These hospitals are crucial access points for local residents, offering a range of services from general care to specialized treatments. Due to the rural nature of the area, access to larger, more specialized hospitals in nearby cities like Mobile and Pensacola is also relevant.

**D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital (Brewton, AL):**

D.W. McMillan Memorial Hospital, located approximately 30 minutes from Atmore, is a key healthcare provider for the region. It is a critical access hospital, a designation for rural hospitals with specific financial and operational characteristics. This designation often signifies a commitment to serving a geographically isolated community. Unfortunately, D.W. McMillan does not currently have a CMS star rating.

Regarding emergency room wait times, data availability is often limited for smaller, rural hospitals. However, understanding typical wait times is crucial for patients experiencing a hypertensive crisis or other emergencies. Patients should contact the hospital directly or check local sources for the most up-to-date information.

D.W. McMillan offers a range of services, including cardiology, which is essential for hypertension management. The availability of a cardiologist and access to diagnostic tools like echocardiograms and stress tests are vital for monitoring and treating hypertension-related complications. Telehealth services may be available, but specific details regarding their scope and availability should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Atmore Community Hospital (Atmore, AL):**

Atmore Community Hospital, located directly within the 36442 ZIP code, provides immediate access to healthcare services for residents. Like D.W. McMillan, it is a critical access hospital. At the time of this review, Atmore Community Hospital does not have a CMS star rating.

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients experiencing a hypertensive crisis. While specific data may vary, patients should inquire about typical wait times at the hospital. Shorter wait times are associated with better outcomes in emergency situations.

Atmore Community Hospital provides general medical services and has the capacity to stabilize patients experiencing hypertensive emergencies. The availability of specialists, particularly cardiologists, may be limited. Patients needing specialized cardiology care may need to be transferred to larger hospitals in the region. Telehealth services may be available, and patients should inquire about their scope and accessibility.

**Accessing Larger Hospitals: Mobile and Pensacola:**

For more specialized care, residents of Atmore often seek services in larger cities like Mobile, Alabama, and Pensacola, Florida. These cities offer a broader range of specialists, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and comprehensive treatment options.

**University Hospital (Mobile, AL):**

University Hospital in Mobile, Alabama, is a major healthcare provider in the region. It is a teaching hospital affiliated with the University of South Alabama. As of the most recent data, University Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects the hospital's overall performance based on various quality metrics.

Emergency room wait times at University Hospital can vary. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most current information. The hospital's size and complexity mean wait times may fluctuate.

University Hospital offers a comprehensive cardiology program, including specialized services for hypertension management. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, interventional cardiology procedures, and access to a wide range of specialists. Telehealth services are likely available, potentially providing access to specialists for consultations and follow-up care.

**USA Health Children's & Women's Hospital (Mobile, AL):**

This hospital, part of the USA Health system, is another important facility in Mobile. While primarily focused on women's and children's health, it may offer services relevant to hypertension management, such as care for pregnant women with hypertension.

Emergency room wait times should be checked on the hospital's website or by contacting them directly.

The hospital's specific offerings related to hypertension care will vary. Patients should inquire directly about the availability of relevant services. Telehealth services may be available.

**Baptist Hospital (Pensacola, FL):**

Baptist Hospital in Pensacola, Florida, is a significant healthcare provider for residents in the region. It is a large, comprehensive hospital. As of the most recent data, Baptist Hospital has a CMS star rating of 4 stars. This rating indicates a higher level of overall quality compared to hospitals with lower ratings.

Emergency room wait times at Baptist Hospital can vary. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most current information.

Baptist Hospital has a strong cardiology program, offering comprehensive services for hypertension management. They provide advanced diagnostic tools, interventional cardiology procedures, and a wide range of specialists. Telehealth services are likely available, potentially offering access to specialists for consultations and follow-up care.

**Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital (Pensacola, FL):**

Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital in Pensacola is another major hospital option. The hospital is a part of the Ascension health system. As of the most recent data, Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital has a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

Emergency room wait times at Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital can vary. Patients should check the hospital's website or contact them directly for the most current information.

Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital has a cardiology program and offers comprehensive services for hypertension management. Telehealth services are likely available.

**Telehealth Considerations:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth can provide remote consultations with specialists, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. The availability and scope of telehealth services vary among hospitals. Patients should inquire about telehealth options at each hospital to determine if they meet their needs.

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

When considering hypertension care, the availability of specialty centers and programs is crucial. These centers often offer specialized expertise and comprehensive care for patients with complex conditions. Patients should inquire about the availability of cardiology centers, hypertension clinics, and other relevant programs at each hospital.

**Key Considerations for Hypertension Patients:**

* **Cardiology Services:** Access to a cardiologist is essential for proper diagnosis, treatment, and management of hypertension.
* **Emergency Room Efficiency:** Shorter wait times in the ER are critical for patients experiencing hypertensive crises.
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Access to diagnostic tools like echocardiograms and stress tests is vital for monitoring and assessing hypertension-related complications.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can provide convenient access to specialists and remote monitoring.
* **Hospital Quality Ratings:** CMS star ratings and other quality metrics can provide insights into the overall quality of care.

**Conclusion:**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care requires careful consideration of various factors. Residents of Atmore, Alabama, have access to local hospitals and can also seek specialized care in Mobile and Pensacola. By evaluating hospital quality, emergency room efficiency, access to specialists, and telehealth options, patients can make informed decisions about their healthcare needs. Always confirm the most up-to-date information directly with the hospitals, as services and wait times can change.