28423, Bolton, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28423, Bolton, North Carolina is 38 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven or Hazard? A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28423

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of ZIP Code 28423 (Burgaw, North Carolina), providing a fact-rich overview to aid in your choices. We'll delve into key metrics, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, offering a snapshot of each facility's strengths and weaknesses in relation to hypertension care.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington, NC)**

New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), a flagship hospital in the region, presents itself as a comprehensive healthcare provider. Its location, a manageable drive from Burgaw, makes it a primary consideration for many residents. NHRMC's overall CMS star rating fluctuates; currently, it holds a respectable, though not stellar, **three-star rating**. This rating reflects a composite of various quality measures, including patient experience, safety, and effectiveness of care. While a three-star rating doesn't necessarily indicate poor care, it suggests room for improvement compared to higher-rated facilities.

NHRMC's emergency department (ED) is a critical point of access. While specific real-time wait times are dynamic and fluctuate based on patient volume, historical data suggests that average wait times can vary significantly. Checking the hospital's website or using online tools like the "Wait Time" feature on Google Maps can provide the most up-to-date information. Long ED wait times can be particularly concerning for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises.

NHRMC boasts several specialty centers that are relevant to hypertension management. The **Cardiovascular Institute** offers a range of services, including cardiology consultations, diagnostic testing (such as echocardiograms and stress tests), and interventional procedures. This is crucial for patients with hypertension who may also have underlying heart conditions. The hospital also has a **stroke center**, which is important because uncontrolled hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke.

Telehealth is increasingly important in healthcare. NHRMC has invested in telehealth services, offering remote consultations and monitoring capabilities. This can be particularly beneficial for hypertension patients, allowing for convenient follow-up appointments and medication management adjustments. The availability and scope of telehealth services should be confirmed directly with the hospital, as offerings can change.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center (Fayetteville, NC)**

While not immediately adjacent to Burgaw, Cape Fear Valley Medical Center in Fayetteville is within a reasonable driving distance and offers another option for residents. It's crucial to factor in travel time when considering this facility. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center also holds a **three-star CMS rating**, similar to NHRMC.

The ED at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, like any busy emergency room, experiences variable wait times. Checking the hospital's website or using online resources to assess current wait times is essential before seeking emergency care.

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center features a **Heart & Vascular Center**, providing cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and interventional procedures. This center is key for addressing cardiovascular complications related to hypertension. They also have a **stroke center**, which can be critical in case of hypertensive crisis leading to stroke.

Telehealth services are available at Cape Fear Valley Medical Center. Confirm the specific telehealth offerings, including availability of cardiology consultations and remote monitoring programs, directly with the hospital.

**Pender Memorial Hospital (Burgaw, NC)**

As the closest hospital to ZIP Code 28423, Pender Memorial Hospital (PMH) is a primary access point for healthcare services. PMH is part of the New Hanover Regional Medical Center system, which gives it access to the resources of the larger system. PMH currently holds a **four-star CMS rating**, which is a positive indicator of overall quality of care.

The ED at PMH is a crucial resource for the local community. Wait times are generally shorter than at larger, regional hospitals, which can be a significant advantage in urgent situations. However, it's essential to remember that wait times can fluctuate.

While PMH is a smaller community hospital, it offers essential services relevant to hypertension management. They have a **cardiology clinic** that provides outpatient consultations and follow-up care. They also offer a **stroke center**, which can be critical in case of hypertensive crisis leading to stroke.

Telehealth services are increasingly integrated into PMH's care model, leveraging the resources of the New Hanover Regional Medical Center system. This can provide patients with access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities. Confirm the specific telehealth offerings, including availability of cardiology consultations and remote monitoring programs, directly with the hospital.

**Other Considerations and Additional Information**

Beyond the primary hospitals, several other factors should influence your decision.

* **Physician Networks:** Consider your insurance plan and the network of physicians available at each hospital. Ensure that your preferred cardiologist or primary care physician is affiliated with the hospital you choose.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Check for accreditation from organizations like The Joint Commission, which indicates adherence to quality standards. All the hospitals mentioned above are accredited.
* **Patient Reviews:** While not a definitive measure, patient reviews can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can offer this information.
* **Medication Access:** Confirm that the hospital's pharmacy carries the medications you need and that you can easily obtain refills.
* **Cost and Insurance Coverage:** Understand the costs associated with care at each hospital, including co-pays, deductibles, and out-of-pocket expenses. Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Telehealth Specifics**

Telehealth's role in hypertension management is growing. When evaluating telehealth options, consider:

* **Availability of Cardiology Consultations:** Can you schedule virtual appointments with a cardiologist?
* **Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Does the hospital offer programs that allow you to transmit your blood pressure readings remotely?
* **Medication Management:** Can your physician adjust your medication dosages through telehealth?
* **Technical Support:** Is technical support available if you experience difficulties using the telehealth platform?

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a multifaceted decision. While the hospitals near ZIP Code 28423 offer varying levels of services and quality, careful consideration of factors like CMS ratings, ED wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, and physician networks will help you make the most informed choice. Always verify the most current information directly with each hospital, as services and wait times are subject to change. Proactive engagement with your healthcare providers and careful monitoring of your blood pressure are crucial for managing hypertension effectively.