21750, Hancock, Maryland Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 21750, Hancock, Maryland is 29 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near Frederick, MD (21750)

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires a clear understanding of available resources. This review focuses on hospitals near the Frederick, Maryland ZIP code 21750, providing a fact-rich overview of their capabilities in treating hypertension, including details on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. This information is crucial for informed decision-making regarding your health.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The area surrounding Frederick, MD (21750) boasts a mix of community hospitals, regional medical centers, and access to larger, more specialized facilities within a reasonable driving distance. The primary focus will be on those hospitals most readily accessible to residents of this ZIP code, highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in the context of hypertension management.

**Frederick Health Hospital: A Local Anchor**

Frederick Health Hospital (formerly Frederick Memorial Hospital) is a cornerstone of healthcare in the region. It's a significant player, offering a broad range of services, including cardiology and internal medicine, which are crucial for hypertension management. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, it generally maintains a respectable score. Patients should check the most current rating on the CMS website. The hospital’s emergency room is a critical point of access, and average wait times are a key consideration. While precise figures vary, it's advisable to check real-time wait times online or via the hospital's website before heading to the ER, especially during peak hours. Frederick Health Hospital has invested in telehealth services, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options. The availability and scope of these telehealth services for hypertension patients should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specialized Cardiac Care at Frederick Health**

Frederick Health Hospital features a dedicated cardiology department. This department is equipped to diagnose and treat a wide range of cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension. They offer services like echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterizations. The hospital also has a cardiac rehabilitation program to help patients recover after cardiac events, which is beneficial for those with hypertension-related complications.

**Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Located a bit further south, but still within a reasonable drive, Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center in Rockville, MD, provides another option. Shady Grove is a large, well-regarded hospital with a strong reputation. Its CMS star rating is generally high, reflecting its commitment to quality care. Again, the most current rating should be verified on the CMS website. Shady Grove's emergency room handles a high volume of patients. Patients should check real-time wait times online. Shady Grove has a robust cardiology department, offering advanced diagnostic and treatment options. They have specialized centers for heart failure and other cardiac conditions, which can be relevant for patients with hypertension-related complications. Telehealth services are available at Shady Grove, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring.

**University of Maryland Medical Center: A Flagship Option**

The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) in Baltimore, while further away, is a major academic medical center and a flagship institution within the University of Maryland Medical System. UMMC often receives high CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety. Its emergency room is a busy one, and wait times can vary. UMMC boasts a comprehensive cardiology program, including advanced cardiac imaging, electrophysiology, and interventional cardiology. It's a referral center for complex cases. UMMC has a significant investment in telehealth, offering a wide range of virtual services, including remote patient monitoring for chronic conditions like hypertension. This is particularly beneficial for patients needing ongoing management.

**Other Considerations: Access and Convenience**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors influence healthcare choices. The availability of primary care physicians and cardiologists in the Frederick area is essential. Patients should research physician availability and insurance network coverage. Proximity to specialists, ease of access to transportation, and the availability of support services like pharmacies and rehabilitation centers also play a role in choosing the right healthcare provider.

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

ER wait times are a significant concern, especially for patients experiencing hypertensive crises. Hospitals near 21750 often publish real-time wait times on their websites or through online platforms. These figures are dynamic and can change rapidly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the number of patients seeking care. Patients should always check the most up-to-date information before heading to the ER. Shorter wait times are generally preferable, but the quality of care should always be the primary consideration.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth services can include virtual consultations with physicians, remote patient monitoring using wearable devices, and medication management support. Hospitals in the 21750 area are increasingly investing in telehealth platforms. Patients should inquire about the availability and scope of telehealth services offered by their preferred provider. Telehealth can improve access to care, reduce the need for frequent in-person visits, and enhance patient adherence to treatment plans.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Hospitals near 21750 offer various specialty centers and programs relevant to hypertension management. These include cardiology departments, cardiac rehabilitation programs, and centers for heart failure. These specialized programs provide comprehensive care for patients with hypertension-related complications. Patients should research the specific services offered by each hospital to determine which best meets their needs.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a valuable metric for assessing quality of care. These ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While CMS star ratings are not the sole determinant of quality, they provide a useful benchmark for comparing hospitals. Patients should consult the CMS website for the most current star ratings for hospitals near 21750.

**Specifics on Telehealth Stats**

The specifics on telehealth statistics vary by hospital. Frederick Health Hospital, for example, offers virtual visits for certain specialties, including cardiology. Adventist HealthCare Shady Grove Medical Center has expanded its telehealth offerings, including remote patient monitoring programs for chronic conditions. The University of Maryland Medical Center has a robust telehealth platform, providing virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and access to specialists. Patients should contact each hospital directly to obtain specific data on telehealth usage, patient satisfaction, and clinical outcomes.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Managing hypertension requires a proactive approach, including regular monitoring, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. Choosing the right healthcare provider is a crucial step in this process. This review provides a starting point for researching hospitals near Frederick, MD (21750), highlighting their strengths and weaknesses in the context of hypertension management. Patients should conduct thorough research, considering factors like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth offerings, and physician availability. By gathering this information, patients can make informed decisions that support their health and well-being. Remember to always consult with your physician to develop a personalized treatment plan and to discuss any concerns you may have about your hypertension management.