32117, Daytona Beach, Florida Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 32117, Daytona Beach, Florida is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 32117 (St. Augustine, Florida)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires careful consideration of available resources. This review analyzes the hospitals serving the vicinity of St. Augustine, Florida (ZIP code 32117), focusing on their capabilities in hypertension care, accessibility, and overall quality. The analysis incorporates data from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), publicly available hospital reports, and other relevant sources to provide a comprehensive overview.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The primary hospital serving the St. Augustine area is Flagler Hospital, located within the city limits. Flagler Hospital is a non-profit community hospital and a crucial healthcare provider for the region. Its CMS star rating is a key indicator of overall hospital quality, reflecting performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. As of the latest available data, Flagler Hospital's CMS star rating provides a snapshot of its performance relative to other hospitals nationwide. This rating, however, is dynamic and can change based on ongoing performance.

**Emergency Room Wait Times and Accessibility**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for patients experiencing hypertensive crises or related complications. Shorter wait times can significantly impact patient outcomes. Publicly available data, often accessible through hospital websites or third-party platforms, provides information on average ER wait times. These figures offer a comparative perspective, allowing patients to assess the efficiency of different hospitals in the area. It is important to note that these are averages and individual wait times can vary.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Care**

Effective hypertension management often requires access to specialized services. Hospitals in the vicinity of 32117 should be evaluated for their cardiology departments, nephrology services (for kidney-related hypertension), and endocrinology clinics (for hormone-related hypertension). Flagler Hospital offers a range of specialized services, including cardiology. The availability of interventional cardiology, such as angioplasty and stenting, is particularly important for managing acute cardiovascular events that can be related to uncontrolled hypertension. The hospital's website and patient resources provide detailed information on the specific specialists and services available.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth services allow patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, consult with healthcare providers, and receive medication management. Flagler Hospital and other healthcare providers in the region have expanded their telehealth offerings. The availability of telehealth options for hypertension management can improve patient convenience, adherence to treatment plans, and overall outcomes. Information on telehealth services, including the types of consultations offered and the technology used, is typically available on hospital websites or through patient portals.

**Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs**

Cardiac rehabilitation programs are vital for patients recovering from cardiovascular events or managing chronic conditions like hypertension. These programs typically involve exercise therapy, education, and lifestyle counseling to help patients improve their heart health. Flagler Hospital likely offers a cardiac rehabilitation program, providing patients with structured support to manage their condition and reduce their risk of future complications. The specifics of the program, including its duration, components, and eligibility criteria, can be found on the hospital's website or by contacting the cardiac rehabilitation center directly.

**Hospitalist Programs and Inpatient Care**

Hospitalist programs, where physicians specialize in inpatient care, can improve the quality and coordination of care for hospitalized patients. The presence of a robust hospitalist program at Flagler Hospital can ensure that patients with hypertension receive timely and comprehensive care during their hospital stay. Hospitalist programs often facilitate communication between specialists, primary care physicians, and other healthcare providers, leading to better outcomes.

**Pharmacy Services and Medication Management**

Effective hypertension management relies heavily on medication adherence. The availability of on-site pharmacies and pharmacy services at Flagler Hospital is essential for ensuring patients can easily access their medications. Pharmacists can provide medication counseling, address potential side effects, and help patients understand their treatment plans. The hospital's pharmacy services should be evaluated for their hours of operation, accessibility, and ability to accommodate patient needs.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a crucial aspect of healthcare quality. CMS star ratings and other patient satisfaction surveys provide insights into how patients perceive their care. These surveys assess factors such as communication with healthcare providers, responsiveness of staff, and overall satisfaction with the hospital experience. Reviewing patient feedback can help patients make informed decisions about their healthcare choices.

**Community Outreach and Education**

Hospitals often play a role in community outreach and education related to health conditions like hypertension. Flagler Hospital may offer educational programs, health screenings, and support groups to raise awareness about hypertension and promote healthy lifestyles. These initiatives can empower individuals to take control of their health and prevent complications associated with hypertension. Information about these programs is typically available on the hospital's website or through community health resources.

**Comparing Hospitals and Making Informed Decisions**

While Flagler Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in the 32117 area, it is important to consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. Patients may have access to other hospitals or healthcare facilities within a reasonable driving distance. Comparing the services, quality metrics, and patient experiences of different hospitals can help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**Conclusion**

Managing hypertension effectively requires a comprehensive approach, including access to quality healthcare services, medication management, and lifestyle modifications. This review has provided an overview of the hospitals serving the 32117 area, with a focus on Flagler Hospital. Patients should utilize the information provided, along with their own research and consultation with their healthcare providers, to make informed decisions about their care. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, adherence to medication regimens, and a healthy lifestyle are essential for managing hypertension and preventing complications.