21701, Frederick, Maryland Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 21701, Frederick, Maryland is 17 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Decoding Hospital Care Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21701)

Living in Frederick, Maryland (ZIP Code 21701) means access to a blend of community hospitals and regional medical centers. For individuals managing hypertension, understanding the quality of care available locally is crucial. This review delves into the strengths and weaknesses of hospitals near 21701, focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth options.

**Frederick Health Hospital: A Local Hub**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital, stands as a central healthcare provider for the Frederick area. As a community hospital, FHH offers a range of services, including cardiology and primary care, essential for hypertension management. While FHH does not have a publicly available CMS star rating, it's important to note that CMS star ratings are not always a perfect indicator of quality, particularly for smaller hospitals. The hospital's website provides information on its quality initiatives, including those related to cardiovascular care.

Emergency room wait times at FHH are a critical consideration. According to recent data, average ER wait times can fluctuate, often depending on the time of day and patient volume. Checking real-time wait times on FHH's website or using online tools is advisable before seeking emergency care. For individuals with hypertension, rapid access to care during a hypertensive crisis is paramount.

FHH's cardiology department offers services relevant to hypertension management, including diagnostic testing like echocardiograms and stress tests. The hospital's primary care physicians are also crucial in managing chronic conditions like hypertension through medication management and lifestyle counseling. Telehealth options, while not extensively detailed publicly, are likely available for follow-up appointments and medication refills, offering convenience for patients.

**Johns Hopkins Medicine: A Regional Powerhouse**

While not directly within the 21701 ZIP code, Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore is a major regional referral center, accessible for residents of Frederick County. Johns Hopkins Hospital consistently ranks among the top hospitals nationally and boasts a 5-star CMS rating, reflecting its high standards of care. This rating is a testament to its commitment to quality and patient safety.

Johns Hopkins' cardiology department is renowned, offering advanced treatments for a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension-related complications. Their specialized centers, such as the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease, focus on proactive measures to prevent and manage heart disease. Accessing these specialized services may require referrals from local physicians.

ER wait times at Johns Hopkins Hospital can vary significantly, reflecting the hospital's high patient volume. Patients should be prepared for potentially longer wait times, especially during peak hours. However, the hospital's expertise and resources make it a valuable option for complex cases. Telehealth services are increasingly available at Johns Hopkins, providing patients with remote access to specialists and follow-up care.

**University of Maryland Medical System: Another Regional Option**

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) offers another important regional option. The University of Maryland Medical Center in Baltimore is a major teaching hospital, and like Johns Hopkins, is accessible to residents of Frederick County. UMMS hospitals typically have a good reputation for cardiovascular care, though specific CMS star ratings can vary across different facilities within the system.

The University of Maryland Medical Center's cardiology department provides comprehensive services for hypertension management, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. They often have specialized clinics focused on conditions like heart failure, which can be a complication of uncontrolled hypertension.

ER wait times at UMMS facilities can fluctuate. Patients should consult the hospital's website or use online tools to check current wait times. Telehealth services are available at UMMS, offering convenient access to specialists and follow-up care, which can be particularly beneficial for managing chronic conditions like hypertension.

**Other Considerations: Smaller Hospitals and Urgent Care Centers**

Beyond the major hospitals, several smaller hospitals and urgent care centers are located near 21701. These facilities may offer basic services for hypertension management, such as blood pressure checks and medication refills. However, they may not have the same level of specialized expertise or resources as the larger hospitals.

Urgent care centers can be a convenient option for non-emergency situations, but they are not equipped to handle complex cases or hypertensive crises. Patients should be aware of the limitations of these facilities and seek appropriate care based on their individual needs.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Many hospitals and healthcare providers near 21701 offer telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and medication management. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and provide convenient follow-up appointments. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when choosing a healthcare provider.

**Evaluating Hypertension Care: Key Factors**

When evaluating hospitals for hypertension care, several factors are crucial. These include:

* **Cardiology Expertise:** The presence of board-certified cardiologists and access to specialized services like cardiac catheterization and electrophysiology.
* **Emergency Room Capabilities:** The ability to quickly and effectively manage hypertensive crises, including rapid access to diagnostic testing and medications.
* **Primary Care Support:** The availability of primary care physicians who can provide ongoing monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.
* **Telehealth Options:** The availability of telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication refills, and remote monitoring.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Reviews and feedback from other patients can provide valuable insights into the quality of care.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission can indicate a hospital's commitment to quality and patient safety.

**Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care requires careful consideration. Patients should research their options, consult with their primary care physicians, and consider their individual needs and preferences. Checking hospital websites, reviewing patient satisfaction scores, and inquiring about telehealth options are essential steps in the decision-making process.

For residents of 21701, Frederick Health Hospital provides a local option, while Johns Hopkins Hospital and the University of Maryland Medical System offer access to advanced specialized care. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each facility, considering ER wait times, and exploring telehealth options will empower patients to make informed decisions about their hypertension management. Remember to consult with your doctor for personalized recommendations.