20763, Savage, Maryland Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 20763, Savage, Maryland is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Help: A Hospital Review for 20763 Residents

Residents of ZIP code 20763, nestled in the Maryland suburbs, have access to a range of healthcare facilities, including hospitals that specialize in treating hypertension. This review focuses on the hospitals closest to the area, evaluating their capabilities in managing high blood pressure, alongside key metrics such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. Understanding these factors is crucial for making informed decisions about where to seek care.

**Proximity and Primary Choices**

The primary hospital serving the 20763 area is **Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** in Silver Spring. It is the closest full-service hospital, making it a convenient choice for emergencies and routine care. Further afield, but still within a reasonable driving distance, are **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** in Olney and **Holy Cross Hospital** in Silver Spring. These three hospitals represent the core options for residents needing immediate medical attention.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Quick Indicator of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) assigns star ratings to hospitals based on their performance across various quality measures. These ratings offer a readily accessible overview of a hospital's overall quality of care. As of the most recent data, **Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** holds a 3-star rating from CMS. This indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationally. **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** also holds a 3-star rating. **Holy Cross Hospital** holds a 4-star rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality. These ratings are a starting point for evaluation, but they should be considered alongside other factors.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: Time is of the Essence**

ER wait times are a crucial factor, especially for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis. Shorter wait times can translate to quicker access to potentially life-saving treatment. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but generally, the following is observed. **Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** typically has an average ER wait time that aligns with the national average. **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** and **Holy Cross Hospital** also report wait times that are generally comparable to the national average. It is always advisable to check current wait times on hospital websites or through services like Google Maps before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Effective hypertension management often requires access to specialized services. Cardiology departments are central to this. All three primary hospitals – **Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center, MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, and Holy Cross Hospital** – have dedicated cardiology departments. These departments offer a range of services, including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms), interventional procedures (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation programs. Look for hospitals with board-certified cardiologists and a multidisciplinary approach, involving nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists.

**Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** has a strong focus on cardiovascular care, including a comprehensive heart and vascular institute. **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** is part of the larger MedStar Health system, which provides access to a network of specialists and advanced cardiac care. **Holy Cross Hospital** is known for its comprehensive heart care programs.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. It offers the convenience of remote monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management. All three hospitals – **Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center, MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, and Holy Cross Hospital** – have embraced telehealth to varying degrees.

**Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** offers telehealth appointments for certain specialties, including cardiology. **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** has a robust telehealth program, including virtual visits with cardiologists and remote patient monitoring for hypertension. **Holy Cross Hospital** also provides telehealth services, allowing patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely.

**Specific Program Details and Expertise**

Beyond general cardiology, it's important to delve into the specific programs offered. Look for hospitals that offer specialized hypertension clinics or programs. These clinics often involve a team of specialists who can provide comprehensive care, including lifestyle modifications, medication management, and patient education.

**Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** offers specialized cardiovascular services, including advanced imaging and minimally invasive procedures. **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** benefits from its affiliation with the MedStar Health system, which provides access to a wide range of cardiovascular specialists and research opportunities. **Holy Cross Hospital** has established programs for heart failure management, which can be beneficial for patients with hypertension-related complications.

**Additional Considerations: Patient Reviews and Reputation**

While CMS star ratings and wait times are important, patient reviews and the hospital's overall reputation also play a role. Online review platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews can provide valuable insights into patient experiences. Look for comments about the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience.

**Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center, MedStar Montgomery Medical Center, and Holy Cross Hospital** all have online reviews available. These reviews can offer a more nuanced perspective on the strengths and weaknesses of each hospital.

**Navigating the Healthcare Landscape**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration. Proximity, CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth offerings, and patient reviews are all critical factors.

**Adventist Healthcare White Oak Medical Center** offers convenience and comprehensive cardiac care. **MedStar Montgomery Medical Center** benefits from its affiliation with a larger healthcare system, providing access to a wider range of specialists. **Holy Cross Hospital** provides a good option with a higher CMS star rating.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Residents of 20763 should research each hospital, considering their individual needs and preferences. Contacting the hospitals directly to inquire about specific hypertension programs, the availability of specialists, and telehealth options is recommended. Talking to your primary care physician is also important; they can provide personalized recommendations and help you navigate the healthcare system. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that best meets your individual needs and provides the highest quality of care.