27974, Shiloh, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 27974, Shiloh, North Carolina is 60 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Elizabeth City, NC (ZIP Code 27974)

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near Elizabeth City, North Carolina (ZIP Code 27974), offering a fact-rich assessment to help you make informed decisions. We’ll delve into key factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities, all vital considerations for individuals managing high blood pressure.

**The Landscape: Key Hospitals and Their Ratings**

The immediate area around Elizabeth City is served primarily by Sentara Albemarle Medical Center. This hospital is a critical access facility, meaning it receives special considerations due to its rural location. It is important to note that, at the time of this review, Sentara Albemarle Medical Center did not have a publicly available CMS star rating. CMS star ratings are a valuable tool for comparing hospitals based on quality of care, patient experience, and other metrics. While the absence of a star rating doesn't automatically indicate poor care, it does limit the ability to benchmark performance against other facilities.

**Sentara Albemarle Medical Center: A Closer Look**

Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offers a range of services, including cardiology, which is central to hypertension management. While specific details on the cardiology department's resources and specialized programs for hypertension are not readily available in public data, it is advisable to directly contact the hospital to inquire about these services. Patients should ask about the availability of cardiologists specializing in hypertension, access to diagnostic tools like echocardiograms and stress tests, and the presence of programs for lifestyle modification and medication management.

**Emergency Room Considerations: Time is of the Essence**

When dealing with hypertensive crises, timely access to emergency care is paramount. Unfortunately, publicly available data on specific ER wait times for Sentara Albemarle Medical Center in the ZIP code 27974 area is not consistently updated. Patients should be aware that ER wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the overall volume of patients. It is always advisable to call the hospital or check their website for the most up-to-date information on wait times. When experiencing symptoms of a hypertensive crisis, such as severe headache, chest pain, or shortness of breath, seek immediate medical attention.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Beyond general cardiology, consider the availability of specialized services. Does Sentara Albemarle Medical Center have a dedicated hypertension clinic or program? Are there endocrinologists specializing in hormonal causes of hypertension? These specialists can provide more in-depth assessments and tailored treatment plans. Contacting the hospital's patient services department is the best way to find out about these specialized services.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Gap in Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly in rural areas. Does Sentara Albemarle Medical Center offer telehealth services for hypertension management? Telehealth can provide convenient access to consultations with cardiologists, medication management, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Inquire about the availability of virtual appointments, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and educational resources delivered through telehealth platforms. Telehealth can be a valuable tool for patients who have difficulty traveling to the hospital or clinic.

**Beyond Elizabeth City: Exploring Regional Options**

While Sentara Albemarle Medical Center is the primary hospital serving the immediate area, it is important to consider options within a reasonable driving distance. Depending on the severity of your hypertension and the specific needs of your care, you may need to explore hospitals in larger cities like Norfolk, Virginia, which is approximately a 1.5-hour drive from Elizabeth City.

**Sentara Norfolk General Hospital: A Flagship Consideration**

Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, a flagship hospital within the Sentara Healthcare system, is located in Norfolk, Virginia. This hospital consistently receives high ratings and has a 4-star CMS rating. This indicates a good overall performance in terms of quality of care and patient experience. It is a major trauma center and offers a comprehensive range of specialized services, including a robust cardiology department. While the drive is longer, patients with complex hypertension or requiring specialized interventions may find that the expertise and resources at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital are beneficial.

**Sentara Heart Hospital: A Specialized Focus**

Within Sentara Norfolk General Hospital is the Sentara Heart Hospital. This dedicated heart hospital offers advanced cardiac care, including interventional cardiology, electrophysiology, and cardiac surgery. For patients with hypertension-related complications, such as heart failure or arrhythmias, the Sentara Heart Hospital could provide a higher level of specialized care.

**Telehealth at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital**

Sentara Healthcare, including Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, has invested significantly in telehealth services. They offer virtual visits with cardiologists, remote patient monitoring programs, and access to educational resources. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live a distance from the hospital or who have mobility limitations.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

Other hospitals in the broader region, such as Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, also offer cardiology services. However, it is essential to research their specific offerings, CMS ratings, and telehealth capabilities.

**Factors to Consider in Your Decision**

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

* **CMS Star Rating:** Provides a general overview of quality.
* **Cardiology Services:** Assess the expertise and resources of the cardiology department.
* **Hypertension-Specific Programs:** Inquire about dedicated hypertension clinics or programs.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Evaluate the availability of virtual consultations and remote monitoring.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Understand potential wait times for urgent care.
* **Specialty Services:** Consider the availability of endocrinologists and other specialists.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read patient reviews to gain insights into the patient experience.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its providers are within your insurance network.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Factor in travel time and ease of access.

**Making an Informed Choice**

Managing hypertension requires a proactive approach. By researching the hospitals near ZIP Code 27974, considering the factors outlined above, and consulting with your primary care physician, you can make an informed decision about where to receive the best possible care. Remember to ask specific questions about the services offered and the expertise of the healthcare providers. Your health is paramount, and choosing the right hospital is a critical step in managing your hypertension effectively.