27577, Smithfield, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 27577, Smithfield, North Carolina is 30 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Help: A Hospital Review Near ZIP Code 27577 (Raleigh, NC)

Living in the Raleigh, North Carolina area, specifically near ZIP code 27577 (Rolesville), means access to a robust healthcare landscape. When managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, choosing the right hospital is crucial. This review delves into the major players in the region, focusing on factors critical for hypertension care, including quality ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth options.

**Proximity and Key Players**

The primary hospital systems serving the 27577 area include WakeMed, UNC Health, and Duke Health. These systems boast multiple facilities, offering a range of services to meet diverse healthcare needs. The proximity of these hospitals is a significant advantage, ensuring relatively quick access to care in emergencies.

**WakeMed Health & Hospitals**

WakeMed is a prominent healthcare provider in the region, with several facilities within a reasonable driving distance of Rolesville. WakeMed Raleigh Campus is a major tertiary care center, offering comprehensive services. The WakeMed Cary Hospital provides a more community-focused approach, while WakeMed North Hospital offers convenient access for residents in northern Wake County.

**Quality and Ratings:** WakeMed Raleigh Campus holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, reflects a commitment to quality and patient safety. CMS star ratings consider factors such as mortality rates, readmission rates, and patient experience. WakeMed facilities consistently demonstrate strong performance in areas related to heart health, including adherence to best practices for treating heart conditions.

**Emergency Room Considerations:** ER wait times are a critical factor in any healthcare emergency. WakeMed Raleigh Campus, being a Level I Trauma Center, often experiences higher patient volumes. However, WakeMed has invested in improving ER efficiency. Real-time wait times are often available on the WakeMed website and through apps, allowing patients to make informed decisions.

**Specialty Centers:** WakeMed boasts a robust cardiology program, essential for hypertension management. The hospital offers specialized services including cardiac catheterization, electrophysiology, and advanced heart failure treatment. The WakeMed Heart & Vascular Institute provides a multidisciplinary approach to cardiovascular care, with a team of cardiologists, surgeons, and support staff.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** WakeMed has embraced telehealth, offering virtual visits for various specialties, including cardiology. This is particularly beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Telehealth can improve access to care, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas.

**UNC Health**

UNC Health, another major player in the region, operates several hospitals, including UNC Medical Center in Chapel Hill, which is a significant tertiary care facility. While not directly in Rolesville, UNC Medical Center is accessible and offers specialized services. UNC Rex Healthcare in Raleigh provides a more local option.

**Quality and Ratings:** UNC Medical Center consistently earns high marks for quality. It holds a 5-star rating from CMS, the highest possible score. This rating reflects exceptional performance across a wide range of quality metrics. UNC Rex Healthcare also performs well, demonstrating a commitment to patient safety and positive outcomes.

**Emergency Room Considerations:** UNC Medical Center, as a major referral center, can experience higher ER volumes. However, the hospital has implemented strategies to improve efficiency. Real-time wait times are available online. UNC Rex Healthcare, being a smaller facility, often has shorter wait times.

**Specialty Centers:** UNC Health offers a comprehensive cardiology program, including specialized services for hypertension management. The UNC Heart & Vascular Center provides advanced diagnostic and treatment options. The system's expertise in research and innovation translates into cutting-edge treatments for cardiovascular diseases.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** UNC Health has a robust telehealth program, with virtual visits available for cardiology and other specialties. This allows patients to connect with their providers remotely, improving access to care and facilitating ongoing management of hypertension.

**Duke Health**

Duke Health is a nationally recognized healthcare system, with Duke University Hospital in Durham serving as its flagship facility. Duke Raleigh Hospital provides a more accessible option for residents in the Raleigh area.

**Quality and Ratings:** Duke University Hospital consistently ranks among the top hospitals in the nation. It holds a 4-star rating from CMS, reflecting a high level of quality and patient safety. Duke Raleigh Hospital also performs well, demonstrating a commitment to providing excellent care.

**Emergency Room Considerations:** Duke University Hospital, as a major academic medical center, can experience higher ER volumes. However, the hospital has invested in improving efficiency. Duke Raleigh Hospital typically has shorter wait times.

**Specialty Centers:** Duke Health boasts a world-renowned cardiology program. The Duke Heart Center provides a wide range of services, including advanced heart failure treatment, electrophysiology, and cardiac surgery. Duke's expertise in research and innovation translates into cutting-edge treatments for cardiovascular diseases.

**Telehealth Capabilities:** Duke Health has a well-developed telehealth program, offering virtual visits for cardiology and other specialties. This allows patients to connect with their providers remotely, improving access to care and facilitating ongoing management of hypertension.

**Other Considerations: Access to Specialists and Patient Experience**

Beyond ratings and wait times, access to specialists is crucial for hypertension management. The hospitals in the region offer a wide range of cardiologists, nephrologists (for kidney-related hypertension), and endocrinologists (for hormone-related hypertension).

Patient experience is another critical factor. Hospitals are increasingly focused on patient satisfaction, offering amenities and services to enhance the overall experience. Patients should consider factors such as communication with providers, ease of navigation, and the availability of support services.

**Insurance and Cost**

Insurance coverage and cost are important considerations. Patients should verify that their insurance plan is accepted by the hospitals and providers they choose. The cost of care can vary depending on the hospital, the services provided, and the patient's insurance coverage.

**Specific Considerations for Hypertension Management**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension management, patients should consider the following:

* **Cardiology Expertise:** Look for hospitals with a strong cardiology program, experienced cardiologists, and access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options.
* **Telehealth Options:** Telehealth can be a valuable tool for managing hypertension, allowing for remote monitoring of blood pressure, medication adjustments, and follow-up appointments.
* **Patient Education:** Hospitals should provide patient education materials and support services to help patients understand their condition and manage their blood pressure effectively.
* **Emergency Room Efficiency:** In case of a hypertensive crisis, quick access to emergency care is crucial. Consider hospitals with shorter ER wait times.
* **Multidisciplinary Approach:** Look for hospitals that offer a multidisciplinary approach to care, involving cardiologists, nurses, dietitians, and other healthcare professionals.

**Conclusion**

The Raleigh, North Carolina area, including near ZIP code 27577, offers a wealth of healthcare options for managing hypertension. WakeMed, UNC Health, and Duke Health each provide comprehensive cardiology services, with varying strengths in quality ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth capabilities. By carefully considering these factors and their individual needs, patients can choose the hospital that best meets their needs and supports their journey to better blood pressure control. It's always recommended to consult with a primary care physician or cardiologist to determine the best course of treatment and hospital selection.