20064, Washington, District of Columbia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 20064, Washington, District of Columbia is 41 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 20064

Navigating the healthcare landscape, particularly when dealing with a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 20064, focusing on their capabilities in managing hypertension and related cardiovascular issues. We’ll examine key metrics, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings, to help you make the best decisions for your health.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

ZIP code 20064, encompassing parts of Washington, D.C., offers a range of hospital options, each with its own strengths. Proximity is a crucial factor, influencing access to care, especially during a hypertensive crisis. This review considers hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, prioritizing those offering comprehensive cardiovascular services.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Deep Dive**

Several hospitals stand out as major players in the region, boasting extensive resources and specialized programs. These institutions often serve as referral centers for complex cases and are frequently the first choice for residents.

**MedStar Georgetown University Hospital:** Located within the heart of Washington, D.C., MedStar Georgetown is a major academic medical center. It holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). While this rating is a snapshot and should be viewed in context, it reflects overall performance across various quality measures. Georgetown’s cardiology program is a significant draw, offering a full spectrum of services, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and heart failure management.

Emergency room wait times at Georgetown fluctuate, often mirroring the demands of a busy urban hospital. Patients should expect to wait, though the hospital strives to minimize delays. Telehealth services are increasingly integrated into Georgetown's care model, providing remote consultations and follow-up appointments for hypertension management. These services are particularly valuable for patients seeking convenient access to specialists and ongoing monitoring.

**Sibley Memorial Hospital, Johns Hopkins Medicine:** Situated in Northwest D.C., Sibley Memorial Hospital is part of the prestigious Johns Hopkins Medicine network. Sibley has a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a strong commitment to quality and patient safety. The hospital's cardiovascular services are robust, with a focus on comprehensive cardiac care.

Sibley's emergency room typically experiences moderate wait times, striving to provide timely care. Telehealth plays a role in Sibley's cardiovascular care, offering remote monitoring and virtual consultations to support patients managing hypertension and other cardiac conditions. The connection to the Johns Hopkins network provides access to cutting-edge research and advanced treatment options.

**Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center:** Located in Rockville, Maryland, a short drive from 20064, Shady Grove Medical Center is a significant regional hospital. It boasts a 4-star CMS rating. Shady Grove offers a comprehensive cardiovascular program, including interventional cardiology and cardiac rehabilitation.

Emergency room wait times at Shady Grove vary but are often shorter than those at larger urban hospitals. Telehealth is expanding at Shady Grove, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring for hypertension management, providing convenient access to care.

**Specialty Centers: Focused Expertise**

Beyond flagship hospitals, specialized centers offer focused expertise in managing hypertension and related conditions. These centers may be part of larger hospitals or operate independently.

**The Washington Hospital Center, MedStar Health:** Located in D.C., The Washington Hospital Center, part of the MedStar Health system, offers a dedicated heart and vascular institute. This institute provides a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular care, including advanced imaging, interventional procedures, and cardiac surgery.

**Inova Fairfax Hospital:** Located in Falls Church, Virginia, a short drive from 20064, Inova Fairfax Hospital houses the Inova Heart and Vascular Institute. This institute is a regional leader in cardiovascular care, offering a wide range of services, including advanced heart failure management and cardiac transplantation.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially during a hypertensive crisis. While wait times fluctuate, resources like the CMS Hospital Compare website and individual hospital websites provide real-time or recent estimates. Shorter wait times can be particularly beneficial in managing acute hypertensive episodes.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has transformed healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Many hospitals near 20064 are expanding their telehealth offerings, providing remote consultations, medication management, and remote monitoring. Telehealth can improve access to specialists, reduce travel burdens, and facilitate more frequent monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs.

**Cardiology Specialists: The Expertise Behind the Care**

The quality of care depends heavily on the expertise of cardiologists and other specialists. Researching individual physician profiles, including their training, experience, and areas of specialization, is crucial. Hospital websites and physician directories provide valuable information.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Guide**

CMS star ratings offer a general overview of hospital performance. However, these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle. They reflect a composite of various quality measures, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience. A higher star rating generally indicates better overall performance, but it's essential to consider individual hospital strengths and weaknesses.

**Beyond the Numbers: Patient Experience and Reputation**

While data points like CMS ratings and wait times are important, patient experience and hospital reputation also matter. Online reviews, word-of-mouth recommendations, and consultations with primary care physicians can provide valuable insights into a hospital's culture and the quality of care provided.

**Specific Considerations for Hypertension Management**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension management, consider the following:

* **Access to Specialists:** Does the hospital have readily available cardiologists, nephrologists (for kidney-related hypertension), and endocrinologists (for hormone-related hypertension)?
* **Diagnostic Capabilities:** Does the hospital offer comprehensive diagnostic testing, including echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterization?
* **Treatment Options:** Does the hospital offer a range of treatment options, including medication management, lifestyle interventions, and interventional procedures?
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** Does the hospital offer a cardiac rehabilitation program to help patients recover and maintain their cardiovascular health?
* **Telehealth Support:** Does the hospital offer telehealth services for convenient follow-up appointments and remote monitoring?

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration. Evaluate the factors discussed in this review, including CMS ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. Research individual physician profiles, consider patient reviews, and consult with your primary care physician to make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. The best hospital is the one that provides you with the highest quality of care, the most convenient access to services, and the support you need to effectively manage your hypertension and maintain your cardiovascular health. The hospitals near 20064 offer a variety of options, and thorough research will help you navigate the landscape and find the best fit for your needs.