The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 20689, Sunderland, Maryland is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.
Health Scores in 20689, Sunderland, Maryland
Hypertension Score | 76 |
---|---|
People Score | 81 |
Provider Score | 60 |
Hospital Score | 38 |
Travel Score | 52 |
## Hypertension Help: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near ZIP Code 20689
Living near ZIP Code 20689, which encompasses Waldorf, Maryland, means access to a range of healthcare options, including hospitals that manage hypertension, a serious condition affecting millions. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the prominent facilities in the area, focusing on their capabilities in hypertension management, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings.
**MedStar St. Mary's Hospital: A Community Hub**
MedStar St. Mary's Hospital in Leonardtown, MD, is a key player in the region. While not directly within 20689, its proximity makes it a viable option for residents. As a community hospital, it provides a broad spectrum of services, including cardiology, which is crucial for hypertension care. MedStar St. Mary's has earned a respectable 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects the hospital's overall quality of care, patient safety, and outcomes.
Regarding ER wait times, data from CMS indicates that the average time to be seen by a provider at MedStar St. Mary's can fluctuate. However, it's generally within the national average for similar-sized hospitals. It's important to note that wait times can vary depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of patient cases. For those seeking specialized hypertension care, MedStar St. Mary's offers access to cardiology specialists who can diagnose, treat, and manage hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions. The hospital also has a robust telehealth program, providing virtual consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows patients to monitor their blood pressure, receive medication adjustments, and connect with their care team from the comfort of their homes.
**University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center: A Local Option**
Located in La Plata, MD, University of Maryland Charles Regional Medical Center (UM Charles Regional) is another hospital that serves the 20689 area. UM Charles Regional is a full-service hospital with a focus on providing comprehensive care to the community. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating indicates a moderate level of quality, reflecting the hospital's performance across various metrics.
UM Charles Regional's ER wait times are generally competitive with other hospitals in the region. However, it's crucial to check real-time data sources, such as the hospital's website or third-party platforms, for the most up-to-date information. The hospital's cardiology department offers services for hypertension management, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. UM Charles Regional has expanded its telehealth capabilities, providing virtual visits for follow-up appointments and medication management.
**Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center: A Focus on Specialty Care**
Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center, while situated a bit further away, is a relevant option for residents in the 20689 area. This hospital is known for its focus on specialized services, including cardiology. The hospital has a 3-star CMS rating, indicating a solid level of quality and patient care.
Adventist HealthCare Fort Washington Medical Center's ER wait times are subject to fluctuations, but they generally align with the regional average. The hospital's cardiology department offers comprehensive services for hypertension management, including advanced diagnostic testing, interventional cardiology procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation programs. Adventist HealthCare has invested in telehealth services, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. This allows for convenient and accessible care, particularly for those who have difficulty traveling to the hospital.
**Important Considerations: Beyond the Hospitals**
Beyond the hospitals, it's essential to consider other factors when choosing a healthcare provider for hypertension management. These include the availability of primary care physicians, access to pharmacies, and the convenience of transportation.
**Primary Care Physicians: The Foundation of Hypertension Care**
Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a crucial role in hypertension management. They are responsible for regular blood pressure checks, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. Finding a PCP who is readily accessible and has experience managing hypertension is essential. The 20689 area has a mix of primary care practices, including those affiliated with the hospitals mentioned above and independent practices. Patients should research PCPs in their network and read online reviews to find the best fit.
**Pharmacies: Medication Access and Support**
Access to a pharmacy is vital for obtaining prescribed medications for hypertension. The 20689 area has a wide array of pharmacies, including national chains like CVS and Walgreens, as well as independent pharmacies. Patients should choose a pharmacy that is convenient, offers competitive pricing, and provides medication counseling.
**Transportation: Navigating Healthcare Access**
Transportation is a significant factor for many patients, especially those with chronic conditions like hypertension. Public transportation options in the 20689 area are limited, so having access to a car or relying on family members for transportation is often necessary. Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft can also be helpful, but their availability and cost should be considered.
**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**
Telehealth has become increasingly important in hypertension management, particularly in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, which can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. The hospitals in the 20689 area have expanded their telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, remote blood pressure monitoring, and other services.
**Specialty Centers: Addressing Complex Cases**
For patients with complex or uncontrolled hypertension, access to specialty centers is crucial. These centers offer specialized expertise in managing difficult-to-treat hypertension, including secondary hypertension caused by underlying medical conditions. The hospitals in the 20689 area often have cardiology departments that provide these services, but patients may need to travel to larger hospitals in the region for more specialized care.
**CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Guide**
The CMS star ratings provide a quick overview of a hospital's quality of care. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While the CMS ratings are a useful tool, they should not be the sole factor in choosing a hospital. Patients should also consider other factors, such as the hospital's location, services offered, and their personal preferences.
**ER Wait Times: Understanding the Data**
ER wait times can vary significantly depending on the hospital, time of day, and the severity of patient cases. It's essential to check real-time data sources, such as the hospital's website or third-party platforms, for the most up-to-date information. Patients with severe symptoms should seek immediate medical attention, regardless of wait times.
**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**
Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a critical decision. Residents of the 20689 area have several options, each with its strengths and weaknesses. By considering the factors discussed in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and access to primary care physicians and pharmacies, individuals can make informed decisions about their healthcare. Remember to consult with your physician to determine the best course of treatment and to discuss any concerns you may have about your hypertension management plan.
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