28544, Midway Park, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28544, Midway Park, North Carolina is 28 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28544)

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, demands informed choices. This review examines hospitals near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28544), focusing on factors critical for hypertension patients: quality of care, accessibility, specialized services, and telehealth options. We’ll delve into CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and the presence of specialty centers to provide a comprehensive overview, helping you make informed decisions about your health.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Players in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Jacksonville area are Onslow Memorial Hospital and Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune. While Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune primarily serves active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families, Onslow Memorial Hospital stands as the primary option for the general public in the area.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital: A Cornerstone of Care**

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located in Jacksonville, is the most accessible hospital for residents of ZIP code 28544. As of the latest data, Onslow Memorial Hospital holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a hospital's overall quality, considering factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While a three-star rating indicates average performance, it's crucial to remember that these ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

Onslow Memorial Hospital has an Emergency Department (ED) that is a critical access point for urgent care. The average wait time in the ED is a key metric for assessing accessibility. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, it's essential to check the hospital's website or use online tools like Google Maps to get the most up-to-date information before heading to the ED.

**Specialty Services and Hypertension Management at Onslow Memorial**

For hypertension patients, access to specialized care is paramount. Onslow Memorial Hospital offers a range of services relevant to managing hypertension, including cardiology and nephrology. The presence of a cardiology department is particularly important, as cardiologists specialize in heart health and can provide comprehensive care for hypertension-related complications. Nephrologists, specializing in kidney health, are crucial as hypertension can damage the kidneys.

The hospital also provides diagnostic imaging services, including X-rays, CT scans, and MRIs, which are essential for evaluating potential complications related to hypertension. The availability of these services on-site minimizes the need for patients to travel elsewhere for necessary tests.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring at Onslow Memorial**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in healthcare, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Onslow Memorial Hospital offers telehealth services, though the specific availability and scope may vary. It's important to inquire about the availability of telehealth appointments with cardiologists, primary care physicians, or other specialists. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for routine check-ups, medication management, and patient education, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune: Serving the Military Community**

Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune provides comprehensive healthcare services to active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. While access is primarily limited to this population, it's important to acknowledge its presence in the region. The hospital offers specialized services, including cardiology, which are relevant to hypertension management. However, specific data on CMS star ratings and ED wait times are not readily available to the public in the same way as civilian hospitals.

**Beyond the Immediate Area: Exploring Regional Options**

While Onslow Memorial Hospital is the closest, it's wise to consider hospitals within a reasonable driving distance, especially for specialized care or in emergencies.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (Wilmington, NC): A Regional Hub**

Located approximately an hour's drive from Jacksonville, New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington is a larger, more comprehensive hospital. NHRMC boasts a five-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Onslow Memorial. This makes it a strong option for those seeking specialized care.

NHRMC has a robust cardiology program, including interventional cardiology services for procedures like angioplasty and stenting, which are crucial for treating complications of hypertension. The hospital also has a dedicated stroke center, which is important as hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke.

The ED at NHRMC sees a higher volume of patients, so wait times can be longer than at Onslow Memorial. Checking real-time wait times online before heading to the ED is essential.

NHRMC also offers a comprehensive telehealth program. Patients can access virtual appointments with specialists, receive remote monitoring services, and participate in educational programs. This can be particularly beneficial for managing hypertension, allowing for regular check-ins and medication adjustments without requiring frequent in-person visits.

**Vidant Medical Center (Greenville, NC): A Tertiary Care Center**

Vidant Medical Center in Greenville, approximately a two-hour drive from Jacksonville, is a tertiary care center and the flagship hospital for Vidant Health. As a teaching hospital affiliated with the Brody School of Medicine at East Carolina University, Vidant Medical Center offers a wide range of specialized services and advanced treatments.

Vidant Medical Center has a strong cardiology program, including electrophysiology services for treating heart rhythm disorders, which can be related to hypertension. The hospital also has a comprehensive stroke center and a dedicated nephrology department.

The ED at Vidant Medical Center typically experiences higher patient volumes, which can lead to longer wait times. Real-time wait time information is available online.

Vidant Medical Center offers extensive telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists, remote patient monitoring, and virtual support groups. These services are valuable for managing hypertension, allowing patients to receive ongoing care and support from the comfort of their homes.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

When choosing a hospital for hypertension care, several factors should be considered:

* **CMS Star Rating:** While not the sole indicator, the CMS star rating provides a general overview of a hospital's quality.
* **Specialty Services:** Access to cardiology, nephrology, and other relevant specialists is crucial.
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are desirable, especially in emergencies.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Telehealth can improve access to care and facilitate remote monitoring.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its specialists are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can provide insights into patient experiences.
* **Proximity:** Consider the distance and travel time to the hospital.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices for Hypertension Management**

Managing hypertension requires proactive care and access to quality healthcare. For residents of ZIP code 28544, Onslow Memorial Hospital is the primary local option, offering essential services. However, considering regional hospitals like New Hanover Regional Medical Center and Vidant Medical Center, which offer more specialized care and higher CMS ratings, is advisable. Understanding the availability of telehealth services and carefully evaluating ED wait times are also crucial. By considering these factors, individuals can make informed decisions and ensure they receive the best possible care for managing their hypertension. Regular check-ups with your primary care physician and adherence to prescribed medication and lifestyle modifications are also essential for successful hypertension management.