27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 27942, Harrellsville, North Carolina is 58 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Manteo, NC (ZIP Code 27942)

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires a nuanced approach. This review examines hospitals and healthcare resources within a reasonable radius of Manteo, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27942), focusing on factors crucial for hypertension patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. We'll delve into CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options, providing a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" assessment.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in Northeastern North Carolina**

The healthcare landscape surrounding Manteo is characterized by a mix of regional hospitals and specialized clinics. Access to advanced medical care can be a challenge in more rural areas. Understanding the strengths and limitations of available facilities is vital for informed decision-making. This review considers hospitals within a practical driving distance, acknowledging that proximity often influences choices, particularly during emergencies.

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

Located approximately 40 miles northwest of Manteo, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in Elizabeth City is a key healthcare provider for the region. It’s a 182-bed hospital offering a range of services. Unfortunately, as of the latest available data, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center does not have a CMS star rating. This rating is a crucial indicator of overall hospital quality, based on factors like patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. Patients should consider this lack of rating when evaluating their options.

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center does have a dedicated cardiology department. This is a critical component for hypertension patients, providing specialized care for heart-related conditions. The availability of a cardiology team is a significant advantage. Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, patients can often find this information online through hospital websites or third-party platforms. It's important to check these times before heading to the ER, especially for non-life-threatening situations.

**Outer Banks Hospital (Nags Head, NC)**

Closer to Manteo, at approximately 15 miles south, is Outer Banks Hospital in Nags Head. This hospital, while smaller than Sentara Albemarle, plays a vital role in serving the Outer Banks community. Outer Banks Hospital currently holds a 4-star rating from CMS. This indicates a good level of overall quality, placing it in a favorable position compared to hospitals without ratings.

Outer Banks Hospital provides a range of services, including cardiology. The presence of cardiology services, even in a smaller hospital, is a significant benefit for hypertension patients. Emergency room wait times are generally reported online, and patients should check these before visiting.

**Specialty Centers and Outpatient Care**

Beyond the main hospitals, the availability of specialty centers and outpatient care options is essential. Hypertension management often requires regular check-ups, medication adjustments, and lifestyle counseling. The presence of local cardiology clinics or primary care practices with a focus on cardiovascular health is a major advantage. These facilities can provide ongoing care and support, reducing the need for frequent hospital visits.

It is important to research the availability of local cardiology practices. Look for clinics with board-certified cardiologists and a focus on preventative care. These clinics can provide specialized expertise in managing hypertension and related conditions.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth services are increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Telehealth allows patients to connect with healthcare providers remotely, making it easier to manage chronic conditions like hypertension. Look for hospitals and clinics that offer telehealth appointments, remote monitoring programs, and virtual consultations. These services can improve access to care, reduce travel time, and enhance patient convenience.

Check the websites of the hospitals and clinics in the area to see what telehealth services they offer. Look for options like virtual check-ups, medication refills, and remote monitoring of blood pressure and other vital signs.

**Emergency Room Considerations**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially for patients with hypertension. High blood pressure can lead to serious complications, and timely medical attention is essential. It is important to research ER wait times for the hospitals in the area. These times can vary depending on the time of day, the day of the week, and the overall patient volume.

Patients can often find ER wait time information online through hospital websites or third-party platforms. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, it is always best to go to the nearest emergency room.

**Access to Medications and Pharmacy Services**

Easy access to medications is vital for hypertension management. The availability of local pharmacies and the ease of getting prescriptions filled are important considerations. Research the pharmacies in the area and their hours of operation. Check to see if they offer services like prescription refills, medication counseling, and home delivery.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience is a key indicator of hospital quality. Look for hospitals with positive patient reviews and high ratings on patient satisfaction surveys. These reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience.

Check online review sites like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews to see what other patients are saying about the hospitals and clinics in the area.

**Hypertension Score Summary**

Based on the available information, here's a preliminary "Hypertension Score" assessment for hospitals near Manteo, NC:

* **Sentara Albemarle Medical Center:** Lacks a CMS star rating, but offers cardiology services. ER wait times should be checked.
* **Outer Banks Hospital:** Holds a 4-star CMS rating, indicating good quality. Offers cardiology services. ER wait times should be checked.

**Important Considerations and Future Research**

This review provides a starting point for evaluating healthcare options near Manteo, NC. However, it's essential to conduct further research. Patients should:

* **Consult with their primary care physician:** Discuss their individual needs and preferences.
* **Contact the hospitals directly:** Inquire about specific services, wait times, and telehealth options.
* **Check for updates:** CMS star ratings and other data can change.
* **Consider insurance coverage:** Ensure that the chosen hospital and providers are in-network.

The healthcare landscape is dynamic. This review is based on available information and should be supplemented with ongoing research and consultation with healthcare professionals.