27403, Greensboro, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 27403, Greensboro, North Carolina is 36 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Greensboro, NC (ZIP Code 27403)

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review focuses on hospitals near Greensboro, North Carolina's 27403 ZIP code, offering a fact-rich analysis to help patients make informed decisions. We'll examine key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" perspective.

**The Flagship: Cone Health and Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital**

The dominant healthcare provider in the region is Cone Health, with its flagship hospital, Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital, serving as a central hub. Moses Cone Memorial Hospital holds a respectable three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates an overall average performance in areas like patient safety, readmission rates, and patient experience.

Moses Cone offers a comprehensive cardiology program, critical for hypertension management. The hospital's heart and vascular center provides specialized care, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. While specific data on hypertension-related outcomes is not publicly available at the granular level, the presence of a dedicated cardiology program is a positive indicator.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for patients experiencing hypertensive crises. Data from the CMS Hospital Compare website provides some insights, though it's important to note that these figures can fluctuate. Moses Cone Memorial Hospital's average ER wait time should be considered alongside other factors. It's always advisable to call ahead or utilize online check-in options when possible to mitigate potential delays.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Beyond general cardiology, look for specialized centers that cater to specific hypertension-related complications. Moses Cone Memorial Hospital, for example, offers services related to stroke care, which is directly linked to uncontrolled hypertension. Access to a stroke center, equipped with rapid diagnostic and treatment capabilities, is vital.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Cone Health has expanded its telehealth offerings, allowing patients to connect with providers remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. This can be particularly beneficial for patients with mobility issues or those living in rural areas. Specific details regarding hypertension-focused telehealth programs, such as the availability of virtual blood pressure monitoring or remote consultations with cardiologists, should be investigated directly with the hospital.

**Other Hospitals in the Vicinity**

While Moses Cone Memorial Hospital is the primary healthcare provider, other hospitals offer alternative options and may be more convenient depending on location and specific needs.

**Wesley Long Hospital:**

Also part of the Cone Health system, Wesley Long Hospital offers another option within the Greensboro area. Wesley Long's CMS star rating and cardiology services should be investigated to determine if they meet your specific needs.

**Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center (Winston-Salem):**

Located a bit further afield in Winston-Salem, Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center is an option for those willing to travel. It boasts a higher CMS star rating than Moses Cone Memorial Hospital. Its cardiology services should be evaluated based on specific needs.

**Assessing the "Hypertension Score"**

To assess the "Hypertension Score" of each hospital, consider these factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher rating generally indicates better overall quality.
* **Cardiology Program:** The presence of a dedicated cardiology program is essential.
* **Specialty Centers:** Access to stroke centers, nephrology (kidney care), and endocrinology (hormone-related conditions) is beneficial.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are crucial, especially during hypertensive crises.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth options can enhance access to care and medication management.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews provide insights into patient experiences.
* **Physician Availability:** Availability of board-certified cardiologists and other specialists.

**Detailed Hospital Analysis:**

**Moses H. Cone Memorial Hospital:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** 3 stars.
* **Cardiology:** Comprehensive cardiology program, heart and vascular center.
* **Specialty Centers:** Stroke center.
* **ER Wait Times:** Varies, check current data.
* **Telehealth:** Expanded telehealth options.
* **Considerations:** Strong local presence, well-established cardiology program.

**Wesley Long Hospital:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check for current rating.
* **Cardiology:** Check for services.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate available services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check for current data.
* **Telehealth:** Investigate available options.
* **Considerations:** Part of the Cone Health system, potentially a convenient option.

**Novant Health Forsyth Medical Center:**

* **CMS Star Rating:** Check for current rating.
* **Cardiology:** Check for services.
* **Specialty Centers:** Investigate available services.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check for current data.
* **Telehealth:** Investigate available options.
* **Considerations:** Higher CMS star rating, but a longer drive.

**Beyond the Hospitals: The Broader Healthcare Ecosystem**

It's essential to consider the broader healthcare ecosystem. This includes access to primary care physicians, specialists, pharmacies, and support groups. A strong primary care physician is crucial for managing hypertension, providing regular check-ups, and coordinating care.

**Finding a Primary Care Physician:**

Cone Health and Novant Health both have extensive networks of primary care physicians. Consider factors like location, insurance acceptance, and patient reviews when selecting a primary care provider.

**Pharmacy Access:**

Convenient access to pharmacies is critical for medication adherence. Evaluate the proximity of pharmacies to your home and preferred hospitals.

**Insurance Coverage:**

Confirm that your health insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and physicians you are considering.

**Patient Education and Support:**

Look for hospitals that offer patient education programs on hypertension management, including lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring techniques. Support groups can also provide valuable emotional support and peer-to-peer learning.

**Making an Informed Decision**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires a thorough evaluation of all the factors discussed. Consider your individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Contact the hospitals directly to gather specific information about their services, programs, and wait times.

**Disclaimer:** This review is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician or other qualified healthcare provider for any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or treatment. Hospital ratings and data are subject to change. Verify all information with the respective healthcare providers before making any decisions.