27924, Colerain, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 27924, Colerain, North Carolina is 43 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near Currituck, NC (ZIP Code 27924)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review provides a detailed look at hospitals near Currituck, North Carolina (ZIP code 27924), focusing on factors crucial for hypertension patients: quality of care, accessibility, specialized services, and technological integration. The goal is to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" – a notional assessment based on available data – to aid in informed healthcare choices.

**The Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The immediate area surrounding Currituck, NC, is primarily rural. Residents often rely on hospitals in neighboring counties and even across the state line into Virginia. The closest options, including those in Elizabeth City, NC, and the Hampton Roads area of Virginia, will be assessed.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (Elizabeth City, NC)**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center (SAMC) in Elizabeth City, NC, is a key player in the region. It is a critical access hospital, meaning it receives special Medicare funding due to its rural location and limited bed capacity. SAMC's CMS (Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services) star rating is a crucial indicator. CMS star ratings, based on a five-star system, reflect overall hospital quality. As of the latest available data, SAMC's star rating is [**Insert current CMS star rating here. This is dynamic data and must be checked on the CMS website. For example, "currently unavailable" or "3 stars"**]. This rating encompasses various aspects, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care.

Regarding hypertension management, SAMC offers standard services, including diagnosis, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. The hospital's cardiology department is a vital resource. The availability of specialized cardiologists and their expertise in managing hypertension-related complications, such as heart failure and stroke, are essential. SAMC’s cardiology department should be evaluated on its staffing levels, certifications, and the availability of advanced imaging technologies like echocardiography and cardiac MRI.

ER wait times are a significant concern for anyone experiencing a hypertensive crisis. [**Insert current average ER wait time for SAMC. This data is also dynamic and must be checked on sources like Hospital Compare or local news reports. For example, "The average ER wait time at SAMC is approximately 45 minutes."**] Longer wait times can exacerbate health risks. SAMC's telehealth capabilities are also critical. Telehealth allows remote consultations, medication management, and follow-up appointments, which can be especially beneficial for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. The hospital's telehealth infrastructure, including the availability of virtual appointments and remote monitoring devices, should be assessed.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center (Newport News, VA)**

Riverside Regional Medical Center (RRMC) in Newport News, Virginia, is a larger, more comprehensive facility, located a reasonable drive from Currituck. RRMC is a flagship hospital within the Riverside Health System, and it has a higher bed capacity and a broader range of specialized services than SAMC. [**Insert current CMS star rating for RRMC. This is dynamic data and must be checked on the CMS website. For example, "RRMC has a 4-star rating."**]

RRMC boasts a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology and electrophysiology services. This is particularly important for patients with complex hypertension cases or related cardiac issues. The hospital's ability to perform procedures like angioplasty and cardiac ablation is a significant advantage. The availability of a dedicated hypertension clinic or a multidisciplinary team specializing in hypertension management is also a plus.

ER wait times at RRMC are another key consideration. [**Insert current average ER wait time for RRMC. This is dynamic data and must be checked on sources like Hospital Compare or local news reports. For example, "The average ER wait time at RRMC is approximately 1 hour."**] RRMC's telehealth capabilities are also noteworthy. The hospital offers a variety of telehealth services, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and chronic disease management programs. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care and help patients manage their hypertension more effectively.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center (Portsmouth, VA)**

Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center in Portsmouth, Virginia, is another option within a reasonable driving distance. It is part of the Bon Secours Mercy Health system. [**Insert current CMS star rating for Maryview. This is dynamic data and must be checked on the CMS website. For example, "Maryview has a 3-star rating."**]

Maryview’s cardiology department should be assessed for its capacity and the availability of specialized services relevant to hypertension management. The hospital's ability to treat hypertension-related complications, such as heart failure and stroke, is crucial.

ER wait times are a critical factor. [**Insert current average ER wait time for Maryview. This is dynamic data and must be checked on sources like Hospital Compare or local news reports. For example, "The average ER wait time at Maryview is approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes."**] Telehealth services are also a factor. The availability of telehealth options, including virtual appointments and remote monitoring, can significantly impact patient care.

**Specialty Centers and Support Services**

Beyond general hospital services, the availability of specialized centers and support services is crucial. This includes:

* **Stroke Centers:** Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke. Hospitals with certified stroke centers, equipped with rapid diagnostic and treatment capabilities, are vital. Assess which hospitals near Currituck have certified stroke centers and their performance metrics.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs:** These programs help patients recover from heart-related events and manage their hypertension through exercise, education, and lifestyle modification. The availability and quality of these programs should be evaluated.
* **Diabetes Education Centers:** Hypertension and diabetes often co-exist. Hospitals with diabetes education centers can provide comprehensive care for patients with both conditions.
* **Support Groups and Community Resources:** Access to support groups and community resources can help patients manage their hypertension and improve their overall well-being.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth plays an increasingly important role in hypertension management. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs can offer:

* **Virtual Consultations:** Patients can consult with their doctors remotely, saving time and travel.
* **Remote Patient Monitoring:** Devices can track blood pressure and other vital signs, allowing doctors to monitor patients' health remotely.
* **Medication Management:** Telehealth can facilitate medication refills and adjustments.
* **Educational Resources:** Patients can access educational materials and support groups online.

**Factors for a "Hypertension Score"**

Creating a "Hypertension Score" is subjective, but it would consider these factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** A higher rating generally indicates better overall quality.
* **Cardiology Department:** The expertise of cardiologists, the availability of specialized services, and the use of advanced technologies.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are critical during hypertensive crises.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Robust telehealth programs can improve access to care and patient management.
* **Specialty Centers:** The availability of stroke centers, cardiac rehabilitation programs, and diabetes education centers.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Patient experience scores, if available, provide valuable insights.
* **Access to Medications and Pharmacies:** Proximity to pharmacies and the availability of affordable medications are essential.
* **Cost of Care:** While not always readily available, understanding the cost of care at each hospital is important.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a personal decision. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near Currituck, NC, based on factors relevant to hypertension patients. By considering the CMS star ratings, cardiology services, ER wait times, telehealth capabilities, and the availability of specialty centers, patients can make informed choices that best meet their individual needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician and cardiologist to determine the best course of action for your specific condition. The information provided here is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.