39455, Lumberton, Mississippi Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 39455, Lumberton, Mississippi is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 39455**

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review analyzes hospitals near the ZIP code 39455 (Hattiesburg, Mississippi), focusing on factors crucial for hypertension patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to aid in choosing the best facility for your needs.

**Understanding the Landscape**

Hattiesburg, Mississippi, offers a concentrated healthcare market. The primary players are Forrest General Hospital, a large regional facility, and several smaller clinics and specialty centers. This review will concentrate on the flagship hospital, Forrest General, and its performance metrics related to hypertension care.

**Forrest General Hospital: A Deep Dive**

Forrest General Hospital (FGH), located at 6061 US-49, Hattiesburg, MS 39402, is the dominant healthcare provider in the area. It is a large, comprehensive hospital, making it the primary choice for many residents.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to evaluate hospital performance. As of the latest available data, Forrest General Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality, considering factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While a 3-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to delve deeper into specific metrics relevant to hypertension.

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

For hypertension patients experiencing a hypertensive crisis, rapid access to care is paramount. Emergency room wait times are a crucial indicator of accessibility. While specific, real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to consult the hospital's website or third-party sources like Google or Healthgrades for the most up-to-date information. Generally, FGH's ER wait times are comparable to other hospitals of its size, but it's always wise to check before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Care**

Forrest General Hospital has several specialty centers. The hospital's cardiology department is a key resource for hypertension management. Cardiologists, specializing in heart health, are vital in diagnosing, treating, and monitoring hypertension. They can provide comprehensive care, including medication management, lifestyle recommendations, and advanced procedures if needed.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Forrest General Hospital offers telehealth options, allowing patients to consult with physicians remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and routine check-ups, reducing the need for in-person visits. The availability and specifics of these services (e.g., platforms used, types of appointments offered) should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Specific Hypertension-Related Metrics**

Beyond general ratings, it’s important to assess specific metrics related to hypertension care. These can include:

* **Blood Pressure Control Rates:** The percentage of patients whose blood pressure is effectively controlled through medication and lifestyle modifications.
* **Readmission Rates:** The rate at which patients with hypertension are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge. High readmission rates can indicate issues with care coordination or patient education.
* **Adherence to Guidelines:** The hospital's adherence to established guidelines for hypertension treatment, such as those from the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC).

While publicly available data on these specific metrics may be limited, inquiring directly with the hospital or consulting with your primary care physician can provide valuable insights.

**Other Hospitals and Clinics in the Area**

While Forrest General Hospital is the primary focus, it's essential to consider other healthcare options near 39455. Several clinics and smaller hospitals may offer specialized services or be more convenient for certain patients.

**Clinics and Urgent Care Centers**

Numerous clinics and urgent care centers in the Hattiesburg area provide immediate care for non-life-threatening conditions. These facilities can be useful for managing hypertension-related issues like medication refills or minor complications. However, they typically do not offer the same level of specialized care as a full-service hospital.

**The Importance of a Primary Care Physician**

Regardless of where you receive care, having a primary care physician (PCP) is crucial for managing hypertension. Your PCP can coordinate your care, monitor your blood pressure, adjust medications, and provide lifestyle recommendations. They can also refer you to specialists, such as cardiologists, when needed.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a vital aspect of healthcare quality. Websites like Healthgrades and the CMS Hospital Compare website provide patient reviews and satisfaction scores. These can offer valuable insights into the quality of care, communication with healthcare providers, and overall patient experience at Forrest General Hospital and other facilities.

**Access to Medications and Support Services**

Managing hypertension often involves medication. The proximity of pharmacies and access to affordable medications are essential considerations. Forrest General Hospital and the surrounding area have numerous pharmacies. Additionally, support services, such as patient education programs and support groups, can be invaluable for managing hypertension effectively. Inquire with the hospital or your PCP about available resources.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care involves evaluating several factors. Forrest General Hospital is the primary healthcare provider in the 39455 area, offering comprehensive services. However, assessing CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities is crucial. Patient reviews and satisfaction scores provide valuable insights. The availability of medications and support services is also critical. Ultimately, the best choice depends on individual needs and preferences. Consulting with your primary care physician and researching available options is essential to make an informed decision.