28528, Gloucester, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28528, Gloucester, North Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Hotspots: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near 28528

Navigating hypertension care requires access to quality medical facilities. This review examines hospitals near ZIP code 28528, focusing on their capabilities in managing hypertension, along with performance metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to help residents make informed decisions about their healthcare.

**The Landscape: Jacksonville, NC and Beyond**

ZIP code 28528 primarily encompasses Jacksonville, North Carolina, a city home to Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune. The healthcare landscape in this area is influenced by the military population and the needs of a growing civilian community. Access to specialized care and timely treatment for conditions like hypertension is crucial.

**Navigating the CMS Star System**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses a star rating system to evaluate hospitals based on quality measures. These ratings provide a snapshot of overall hospital performance. While not the sole determinant of quality, they offer a valuable starting point for research. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally demonstrate better performance across a range of metrics.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital: The Local Anchor**

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located in Jacksonville, is a key player in the local healthcare ecosystem. As a community hospital, it serves a large portion of the population in and around 28528. Assessing its performance in hypertension management is critical. Information on its CMS star rating, if available, is a primary consideration. Analyzing its performance on metrics related to blood pressure control, medication adherence, and patient education is also important.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a significant concern for anyone experiencing a hypertensive crisis or related complications. Long wait times can exacerbate the condition and delay necessary treatment. Data on average ER wait times at hospitals near 28528 is essential. This includes the time from arrival to a doctor's assessment, and the time to discharge. Comparing wait times across different facilities can highlight potential advantages and disadvantages.

**Specialty Centers: Expertise in Hypertension Management**

Specialty centers dedicated to cardiology, nephrology, and endocrinology play a crucial role in hypertension care. These centers often have specialized expertise and resources for managing complex cases. Identifying the presence and scope of these centers at hospitals near 28528 is vital. This includes information on the number of cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists on staff, and the availability of advanced diagnostic and treatment options.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services have become increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, consult with healthcare providers, and receive medication management support. Evaluating the telehealth capabilities of hospitals near 28528 is essential. This includes information on the availability of virtual appointments, remote patient monitoring programs, and the integration of telehealth into the overall hypertension care pathway.

**Beyond Jacksonville: Exploring Regional Options**

While Onslow Memorial Hospital is a central resource, residents may also consider hospitals in nearby cities. This could include facilities in Wilmington, New Bern, or even Raleigh-Durham, depending on the specific needs and preferences of the patient.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center: A Wilmington Consideration**

New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC), located in Wilmington, North Carolina, is a regional referral center. It often has a broader range of specialized services and resources than smaller community hospitals. Evaluating NHRMC's capabilities in hypertension management is essential. This includes its CMS star rating, the presence of specialized cardiology and nephrology centers, and its telehealth offerings. Comparing its ER wait times to those of Onslow Memorial Hospital provides a valuable perspective.

**Vidant Medical Center: A New Bern Option**

Vidant Medical Center, located in Greenville, North Carolina, is another potential option for residents near 28528. As a large regional medical center, it may offer specialized services not available locally. Assessing its performance in hypertension management, including its CMS star rating, the availability of specialty centers, and its telehealth capabilities, is crucial. Comparing its ER wait times to other facilities helps in making informed decisions.

**Specific Metrics: Digging Deeper into Performance**

Beyond general assessments, specific metrics provide a more detailed picture of hospital performance. These include:

* **Blood Pressure Control Rates:** The percentage of patients with hypertension whose blood pressure is effectively controlled.
* **Medication Adherence Rates:** The percentage of patients who consistently take their prescribed medications.
* **Patient Education Programs:** The availability of educational resources and programs to help patients understand and manage their hypertension.
* **Use of Guidelines-Based Care:** The extent to which hospitals adhere to established clinical guidelines for hypertension management.
* **Readmission Rates:** The rate at which patients with hypertension are readmitted to the hospital within a certain timeframe.
* **Stroke Prevention Programs:** The availability of programs focused on preventing strokes, a common complication of uncontrolled hypertension.

**Telehealth Statistics: A Modern Approach**

Telehealth statistics provide valuable insights into the adoption and effectiveness of virtual care. This includes:

* **Number of Telehealth Visits:** The total number of virtual appointments conducted.
* **Patient Satisfaction with Telehealth:** Patient feedback on their experience with telehealth services.
* **Remote Blood Pressure Monitoring Programs:** The availability and utilization of remote monitoring programs.
* **Telehealth Integration with Electronic Health Records:** The seamless integration of telehealth data into patient records.

**Challenges and Considerations**

Healthcare access in rural areas like Jacksonville can present challenges. These may include:

* **Transportation Barriers:** Difficulty accessing hospitals due to distance or lack of transportation.
* **Specialist Availability:** Limited access to specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Challenges related to insurance coverage and affordability of care.
* **Digital Literacy:** The need for digital literacy among patients to effectively utilize telehealth services.

**The Bottom Line: Making Informed Choices**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care requires a thorough assessment of various factors. This review has provided a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 28528, including their CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. By considering these factors, residents can make informed decisions about their healthcare and receive the best possible care for their hypertension. Continued monitoring of hospital performance and evolving healthcare trends is essential for optimal health outcomes.