21718, Burkittsville, Maryland Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 21718, Burkittsville, Maryland is 64 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (21718)

Finding the right hospital for managing hypertension, a condition affecting millions, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near Frederick, Maryland (ZIP code 21718), providing a fact-rich overview to help you make informed decisions. We’ll delve into factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a comprehensive picture of each facility's strengths and weaknesses in the context of hypertension care.

**Frederick Health Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Frederick Health Hospital, located in Frederick, MD, is a primary healthcare provider for the area. It's a large, well-established hospital, and its performance in hypertension management is a key consideration for residents. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it's essential to check the most recent data on the CMS website (Medicare.gov) for the most up-to-date assessment. CMS star ratings consider a range of factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience, providing a valuable, albeit general, overview of hospital quality.

Frederick Health Hospital's emergency room (ER) wait times are a practical concern. While specific wait times fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume, resources like ERWaitTimes.com can provide estimates. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, especially for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises. The hospital's cardiology department is the central hub for hypertension care. They offer a range of services, including diagnostic testing like echocardiograms and stress tests, as well as interventional procedures.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Frederick Health Hospital offers telehealth options, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely, monitor blood pressure, and receive medication management. The hospital’s website provides details on available telehealth services and how to access them.

**Suburban Hospital: A Johns Hopkins Medicine Affiliate**

Located further afield, in Bethesda, MD, Suburban Hospital, an affiliate of Johns Hopkins Medicine, is a major player in the region's healthcare landscape. Its affiliation with Johns Hopkins, a globally recognized leader in medicine, often translates into access to advanced treatments and specialized expertise. Suburban Hospital's CMS star rating should be reviewed on Medicare.gov. The hospital’s reputation for high-quality care is a significant draw.

Suburban Hospital's cardiology department is robust, offering a comprehensive approach to hypertension management. This includes access to specialized cardiologists, advanced diagnostic tools, and a range of treatment options, including medication management and lifestyle interventions. While not in Frederick, the hospital’s proximity and reputation make it a viable option for some residents. ER wait times should be checked on resources like ERWaitTimes.com.

Telehealth is increasingly integrated into the hospital’s services. Suburban Hospital offers virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and other telehealth tools to support patients with chronic conditions like hypertension.

**University of Maryland Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC), located in Baltimore, is a major academic medical center. Its size and scope often translate into access to cutting-edge treatments and specialists. UMMC’s CMS star rating is a crucial indicator of overall quality and should be verified on Medicare.gov. The hospital’s reputation as a teaching hospital also often means a focus on research and innovation.

UMMC's cardiology department is a significant resource for hypertension management. The hospital boasts a team of highly specialized cardiologists, access to advanced diagnostic tools, and a comprehensive range of treatment options. The hospital is known for its expertise in managing complex cardiovascular cases, which can be beneficial for patients with severe hypertension or related complications. ER wait times are an important consideration and can be checked on ERWaitTimes.com.

UMMC has a growing telehealth program. The hospital offers virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and other telehealth services. Patients can access these services through the hospital's website.

**Meritus Medical Center: A Western Maryland Option**

Meritus Medical Center, located in Hagerstown, MD, provides healthcare services to the western Maryland region. While outside of Frederick, it is a possible option for some residents. Checking the hospital's CMS star rating on Medicare.gov is essential.

Meritus Medical Center's cardiology department offers services for hypertension management. Patients can expect access to cardiologists, diagnostic testing, and treatment options. ER wait times are a factor to consider, which can be checked on resources like ERWaitTimes.com.

Telehealth services are available at Meritus Medical Center, allowing for remote consultations and monitoring. The hospital's website provides details on the available telehealth options.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Beyond general cardiology departments, consider the availability of specialized centers. Some hospitals may have dedicated hypertension clinics or centers focused on managing complex cardiovascular conditions. These centers often have multidisciplinary teams, including cardiologists, nephrologists, endocrinologists, and registered dietitians, to provide comprehensive care.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant factor, especially in the event of a hypertensive crisis. Shorter wait times can lead to quicker diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing serious complications. Resources like ERWaitTimes.com can provide estimates, but it's important to remember that these are just estimates, and actual wait times can vary.

**Telehealth: The Future of Hypertension Care**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in managing hypertension. Remote monitoring tools, virtual consultations, and medication management support can help patients stay on track with their treatment plans. When choosing a hospital, consider the availability and scope of its telehealth services.

**Access to Specialists**

Hypertension can be a complex condition, and access to specialists is crucial. Cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists), and endocrinologists (hormone specialists) may be involved in managing hypertension, especially in cases of complications or underlying conditions.

**Insurance Coverage and Cost**

Insurance coverage and the cost of care are significant factors. Check with your insurance provider to determine which hospitals are in your network and what your out-of-pocket expenses will be.

**Conclusion: Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration of several factors. CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and access to specialists are all crucial. Researching the specific services offered by each hospital, checking their CMS star ratings, and considering your individual needs and preferences are essential steps in making an informed decision. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and cardiologist to discuss the best options for your specific situation. The information provided here is intended as a starting point for your research, not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your doctor for personalized recommendations.