28425, Burgaw, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28425, Burgaw, North Carolina is 40 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare for High Blood Pressure Near 28425 (Burgaw, NC)**

Living with hypertension requires diligent management, and access to quality healthcare is paramount. For residents near Burgaw, North Carolina (ZIP code 28425), the choice of hospital can significantly impact the effectiveness of that management. This review examines the hospitals in and around this area, focusing on factors critical for hypertension care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Stakes: Hypertension and Healthcare**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a silent killer. It often presents without noticeable symptoms, yet it dramatically increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, kidney failure, and other serious health problems. Effective treatment involves lifestyle modifications, medication, and regular monitoring. The quality of the healthcare provider, including access to specialists and advanced diagnostic tools, is crucial for successful management.

**The CMS Star Rating: A Quick Gauge of Quality**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system for hospitals, offering a readily accessible snapshot of overall quality. While not the only factor to consider, the CMS star rating can be a useful starting point. The ratings are based on various metrics, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) – Wilmington, NC:**

Located approximately 30 miles from Burgaw, NHRMC is the closest major hospital. It is a flagship hospital in the region. NHRMC, as of the last update, held a CMS star rating of 3 stars. This rating reflects its performance across various quality measures. NHRMC is a large, comprehensive hospital with a wide range of services, including cardiology and nephrology departments, crucial for hypertension management.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center – Fayetteville, NC:**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center, while further afield (roughly 70 miles from Burgaw), serves a large population and is a major regional healthcare provider. It is a large facility, with a wide range of specialties and services. Cape Fear Valley Medical Center had a CMS star rating of 3 stars.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

In a hypertensive crisis, every minute counts. ER wait times can be a significant factor in the timely delivery of care. Unfortunately, publicly available, real-time ER wait time data can be inconsistent. However, several online resources, such as Google and hospital websites, often provide estimates. It's essential to verify this information, as wait times fluctuate.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) ER:**

NHRMC's ER is the closest major emergency facility. Its wait times can vary significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the severity of cases. Generally, expect wait times to be in line with other large hospitals, potentially longer during peak hours. It's advisable to call the hospital directly or check online resources for the most current estimates before heading to the ER.

**Cape Fear Valley Medical Center ER:**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's ER, while further away, is another option. Wait times here can be influenced by the same factors as NHRMC's ER. Due to the distance, it is crucial to consider travel time when evaluating this option, especially in an emergency.

**Specialty Centers and Expertise: The Heart of Hypertension Care**

Hypertension management often requires the expertise of cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists. Access to these specialists is critical for accurate diagnosis, tailored treatment plans, and ongoing monitoring.

**NHRMC Cardiology:**

NHRMC boasts a robust cardiology department. They offer a full spectrum of cardiac services, including diagnostic testing (echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation. The availability of these services is crucial for addressing potential complications of hypertension.

**NHRMC Nephrology:**

The nephrology department at NHRMC is also essential. Hypertension is a leading cause of kidney disease, and regular monitoring by a nephrologist is often necessary. NHRMC's nephrology services include dialysis and other advanced treatments for kidney-related complications.

**Cape Fear Valley Cardiology and Nephrology:**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center also offers cardiology and nephrology services. These departments provide similar services to those at NHRMC. The choice between the two hospitals may depend on factors such as physician preference, insurance coverage, and convenience.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows patients to connect with their healthcare providers remotely, enabling regular check-ins, medication adjustments, and education.

**NHRMC Telehealth:**

NHRMC has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. They provide virtual visits for various specialties, including cardiology and primary care. These virtual appointments can be invaluable for routine follow-ups, medication management, and patient education. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve patient convenience and adherence to treatment plans.

**Cape Fear Valley Telehealth:**

Cape Fear Valley Medical Center also offers telehealth services. They provide virtual appointments and remote monitoring options. This can be beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility limitations.

**Other Hospitals and Clinics in the Area:**

Several smaller hospitals and clinics are located closer to Burgaw. These facilities may offer primary care services and limited specialty care.

**Pender Memorial Hospital – Burgaw, NC:**

Pender Memorial Hospital, located in Burgaw, is a critical access hospital. It is a smaller facility that provides emergency care and some inpatient services. However, its specialty services are more limited compared to NHRMC or Cape Fear Valley. It may be a good option for basic care and initial stabilization, but patients may need to be transferred to a larger hospital for specialized treatment.

**Coastal Carolina Health Care:**

Coastal Carolina Health Care operates several clinics in the area, including primary care and some specialty services. These clinics can be a convenient option for routine check-ups, medication refills, and basic hypertension management.

**Choosing the Right Hospital: A Personalized Decision**

The "best" hospital for managing hypertension is a highly personal decision. It depends on individual needs, preferences, and circumstances. Consider these factors when making your choice:

* **Proximity:** How far are you willing to travel for care?
* **Specialty Services:** Do you need access to cardiology, nephrology, or other specialists?
* **Telehealth Availability:** Do you prefer virtual appointments?
* **Insurance Coverage:** Does the hospital accept your insurance?
* **Physician Preferences:** Do you have a preferred cardiologist or primary care physician?
* **CMS Star Rating:** While not the only factor, consider the hospital's overall quality rating.
* **ER Wait Times:** Be aware of potential wait times, especially in emergencies.

**Recommendations for Patients Near 28425**

For residents near Burgaw, North Carolina (28425), the following recommendations are offered:

1. **Establish a Primary Care Physician:** This is the cornerstone of hypertension management. A primary care physician can monitor your blood pressure, prescribe medication, and refer you to specialists as needed.
2. **Consider NHRMC:** Due to its proximity and comprehensive services, NHRMC is a strong option. Its cardiology and nephrology departments are well-equipped to handle hypertension-related complications.
3. **Explore Telehealth Options:** Take advantage of telehealth services offered by NHRMC or Cape Fear Valley for convenient follow-up appointments and medication management.
4. **Be Prepared for Emergencies:** Familiarize yourself with the ER wait times at NHRMC and Pender Memorial Hospital. In a hypertensive crisis, quick access to care is crucial.
5. **Stay Informed:** Regularly check hospital websites and online resources for the latest information on wait times, services, and telehealth options.
6. **Ask Questions:** Don't hesitate to ask your healthcare providers about their experience with hypertension management and the resources available to you.

**Conclusion**

Managing hypertension effectively requires a proactive approach and access to quality healthcare. For residents near Burgaw, NC (28425), the choice of hospital is an important decision. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, individuals can make informed choices that support their health and well-being. Remember to consult with your healthcare providers to create a personalized plan for managing your hypertension and achieving optimal health outcomes.