21711, Big Pool, Maryland Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 21711, Big Pool, Maryland is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (ZIP Code 21711)

Living in Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21711) presents residents with a range of healthcare options, particularly crucial for managing conditions like hypertension. This review delves into the hospitals closest to this area, examining their strengths, weaknesses, and specific services relevant to hypertension care. We'll consider factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities to provide a comprehensive overview for patients seeking the best care.

**Frederick Health Hospital: The Local Powerhouse**

Frederick Health Hospital (FHH), formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital, stands as the primary healthcare provider within Frederick. It's a cornerstone of the community, offering a broad spectrum of services. While a specific CMS star rating can fluctuate, it generally hovers around the national average, indicating a solid, if not exceptional, performance in overall quality.

FHH has a dedicated cardiology department, crucial for hypertension management. This department includes cardiologists, nurses specializing in cardiac care, and access to advanced diagnostic tools like echocardiograms and stress tests. Patients with hypertension can expect comprehensive evaluations, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Emergency room wait times at FHH are a critical consideration. While specific data can vary based on the time of day and day of the week, average wait times are often in line with or slightly better than the national average. This is a key factor for patients experiencing hypertensive crises or related emergencies. The hospital's ER is equipped to handle acute cardiac events, including those related to uncontrolled hypertension.

FHH has embraced telehealth to some extent, offering virtual appointments for certain specialties. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments and medication management for hypertension patients, providing convenient access to care without requiring in-person visits. The hospital also has a robust patient education program, including resources on diet, exercise, and stress management, all vital components of hypertension control.

**The University of Maryland Medical System: Expanding Options**

The University of Maryland Medical System (UMMS) offers several hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of Frederick, providing patients with additional choices and access to specialized expertise. The closest UMMS facility is the University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore, a flagship hospital known for its high-level care.

UMMC boasts a high CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. This is a significant advantage for patients seeking comprehensive care, including those with complex hypertension cases. UMMC's cardiology department is renowned, offering advanced treatments and research opportunities.

However, the distance to Baltimore necessitates considering travel time. Emergency room wait times at UMMC can be longer than at FHH, especially during peak hours. This is a crucial factor for patients needing immediate care.

UMMC is a leader in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual services, including cardiology consultations. This can be a valuable option for patients seeking specialist opinions or managing their hypertension remotely. The hospital also has specialized centers for cardiovascular disease, including those related to hypertension complications like heart failure and stroke.

**Adventist Healthcare: A Regional Presence**

Adventist Healthcare, with its flagship hospital, Shady Grove Medical Center, located in Rockville, MD, offers another option for residents near Frederick. Shady Grove Medical Center is known for its strong cardiovascular program.

Shady Grove Medical Center typically receives a solid CMS star rating, reflecting its commitment to quality. Its cardiology department provides comprehensive care for hypertension, including medication management, lifestyle counseling, and access to advanced diagnostic tools.

The drive to Rockville from Frederick is manageable, but patients should factor in travel time. Emergency room wait times at Shady Grove can vary, so checking real-time data before heading to the ER is advisable.

Adventist Healthcare has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations for cardiology. This can provide patients with convenient access to specialists and facilitate remote monitoring of their hypertension. The hospital's emphasis on preventive care and wellness programs aligns with the importance of lifestyle modifications in managing hypertension.

**Other Considerations: Specialty Clinics and Outpatient Care**

Beyond the major hospitals, residents of 21711 have access to various specialty clinics and outpatient facilities. These can play a vital role in hypertension management, offering specialized services and convenient access to care.

Many cardiology practices in the Frederick area provide comprehensive hypertension care, including medication management, regular check-ups, and lifestyle counseling. These practices often collaborate with local hospitals for diagnostic testing and specialized treatments.

Outpatient rehabilitation centers can assist patients recovering from hypertension-related complications like stroke or heart attack. These centers offer physical therapy, occupational therapy, and other supportive services to help patients regain their function and improve their quality of life.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. It offers patients convenient access to care, reduces the need for travel, and can facilitate remote monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs.

Hospitals in the area are expanding their telehealth offerings, providing virtual consultations, medication management, and patient education. Patients should inquire about telehealth options when choosing a healthcare provider.

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

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, especially for patients experiencing hypertensive crises or related emergencies. These wait times can vary depending on the hospital, time of day, and day of the week.

Patients should check real-time wait times online or by phone before heading to the ER. Hospitals often provide this information on their websites or through mobile apps.

**Conclusion: Navigating the Options**

Residents of ZIP code 21711 have several excellent hospital options for managing hypertension. Frederick Health Hospital offers convenient local care, while the University of Maryland Medical System and Adventist Healthcare provide access to specialized expertise.

When choosing a hospital, patients should consider factors such as CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, cardiology department expertise, telehealth capabilities, and proximity. Consulting with a primary care physician is essential to determine the best course of treatment and to ensure that patients receive the appropriate level of care. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents can make informed decisions and find the best healthcare provider to help them manage their hypertension and maintain their overall health. The increasing use of telehealth provides a convenient option for many patients, allowing for regular check-ins and medication management without the need for frequent in-person visits.