27919, Belvidere, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 27919, Belvidere, North Carolina is 47 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27919)

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires careful consideration. This review delves into the hospital landscape near Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27919), focusing on factors crucial for hypertension patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. We’ll examine hospital performance metrics, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, and the availability of key specialty centers, to help you make informed decisions.

**Proximity and Primary Options:**

Elizabeth City, a town nestled in the northeastern corner of North Carolina, primarily relies on a few key healthcare providers. The closest major hospital is **Sentara Albemarle Medical Center** in Elizabeth City itself. Other options, though requiring more travel, include facilities in neighboring cities such as Norfolk and Chesapeake, Virginia.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center: The Local Hub**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (SAMC) is the primary hospital serving the 27919 ZIP code. It's a critical access hospital, meaning it receives specific Medicare funding to support rural healthcare needs. While SAMC serves as a vital resource, its CMS star rating is currently unavailable. The absence of a rating can sometimes reflect a smaller hospital's focus on local needs rather than the broader range of services and data collection required for the CMS assessment.

SAMC's emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for hypertension patients, especially during hypertensive crises. Unfortunately, publicly available data on ER wait times for SAMC is limited. However, patients can access real-time wait times through the hospital's website or by calling the ER directly. It's always advisable to call ahead to assess the current situation, particularly during peak hours.

SAMC offers a range of services relevant to hypertension management. These include cardiology services, diagnostic imaging (such as echocardiograms and stress tests), and a pharmacy. The hospital also provides outpatient services, which are essential for ongoing monitoring and medication management. The availability of these services locally minimizes the need for travel, which can be a significant advantage for patients with mobility limitations or those living in rural areas.

**Beyond Elizabeth City: Exploring Regional Options**

While SAMC is the local cornerstone, patients may consider hospitals further afield for specialized care or access to a wider range of services. The Norfolk and Chesapeake areas in Virginia, approximately an hour's drive from Elizabeth City, offer several major medical centers.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (Norfolk, VA): A Flagship Facility**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital (SNGH) is a flagship facility within the Sentara Healthcare system. This hospital consistently receives high ratings from CMS, currently boasting a 4-star rating. SNGH’s strong performance reflects its commitment to quality care, patient safety, and positive outcomes. The hospital is a Level I trauma center, indicating its capacity to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including those related to hypertensive crises.

SNGH's cardiology department is a significant draw for hypertension patients. The hospital offers comprehensive cardiac care, including advanced diagnostic procedures, interventional cardiology, and cardiac surgery. This level of expertise can be crucial for patients experiencing complications from hypertension, such as heart failure or coronary artery disease.

Emergency room wait times at SNGH are generally available online and are often updated in real-time. Patients can access this information through the Sentara website or through third-party websites that aggregate ER wait time data. It's important to note that wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of the cases being treated.

**Other Virginia Options: Chesapeake Regional Medical Center and More**

Chesapeake Regional Medical Center (Chesapeake, VA) is another option within a reasonable driving distance. While data on CMS star ratings for Chesapeake Regional is currently unavailable, the hospital is known for its comprehensive services and commitment to patient care. Chesapeake Regional offers cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and treatment options.

Patients should also consider the availability of specialty centers, such as those focused on endocrinology (for managing conditions like diabetes that can exacerbate hypertension) and nephrology (for kidney-related complications of hypertension). These specialty services are often available at larger hospitals like SNGH and Chesapeake Regional.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become an increasingly important component of healthcare delivery, particularly in rural areas. The availability of telehealth services can significantly improve access to care for hypertension patients in the 27919 ZIP code. Telehealth allows patients to consult with their physicians remotely, monitor their blood pressure, and receive medication management advice without having to travel to the hospital.

Both SAMC and the larger Sentara system offer telehealth options. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments with their primary care physicians and cardiologists. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication adjustments, and routine monitoring of blood pressure.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise:**

Beyond general cardiology, hypertension patients may benefit from specialized centers. For example, a stroke center is crucial, as hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke. SNGH has a well-regarded stroke center. Diabetic clinics are also valuable, as diabetes often co-exists with hypertension.

**Navigating the Healthcare System:**

Choosing the right hospital and healthcare provider requires careful consideration of several factors. Patients should consider the following:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for care?
* **CMS Star Ratings:** While not the only indicator of quality, CMS ratings provide a valuable benchmark.
* **ER Wait Times:** Check real-time wait times before going to the ER.
* **Specialty Services:** Does the hospital offer the specialized care you need?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Can you access telehealth appointments for convenience and monitoring?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to get insights into their experiences.

**Conclusion: Tailoring Your Healthcare Strategy**

For residents of the 27919 ZIP code, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center serves as the local healthcare hub. While it's essential to utilize local resources, patients should be aware of the options available in Norfolk and Chesapeake, Virginia, particularly Sentara Norfolk General Hospital. By considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth availability, patients can develop a comprehensive healthcare strategy for managing their hypertension effectively. Proactive engagement with healthcare providers, combined with a focus on preventative measures, will be key to successful hypertension management. Regular communication with your doctor, monitoring your blood pressure, and adhering to your prescribed treatment plan are essential for maintaining good health.