28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28547, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: Navigating Healthcare Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28547)

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, is critical. For residents near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28547), the options are varied, ranging from large flagship hospitals to smaller, specialized clinics. This review will dissect the available resources, focusing on key factors for hypertension patients: hospital quality, emergency room access, specialty care, and telehealth capabilities.

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

The primary healthcare provider for the region is **Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune**, serving active-duty military personnel and their families. While not directly rated by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), it's a vital component of the healthcare ecosystem. Civilian options are primarily focused on the regional healthcare systems.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center (NHRMC) in Wilmington, NC**, is a major player, roughly an hour's drive from Jacksonville. NHRMC has a strong regional presence. While not directly in the 28547 ZIP code, its proximity and comprehensive services make it a significant option. CMS ratings are a key indicator of hospital quality. NHRMC has a **3-star CMS rating**. This rating considers factors like patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville** is the closest civilian hospital to the 28547 ZIP code. It is a community hospital serving the local population. Onslow Memorial Hospital currently holds a **3-star CMS rating**.

**Emergency Room Access: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor for anyone, but especially for those with hypertension. Rapid intervention can be life-saving in hypertensive crises. While specific, real-time ER wait times fluctuate, publicly available data provides a general idea.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital's ER** is the closest option. While specific wait times vary depending on the time of day and patient volume, it’s generally accessible to residents of 28547.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center** in Wilmington, NC, offers a larger ER. The drive time is longer, but the ER is often equipped to handle higher volumes and more complex cases.

**Specialty Care: Finding Hypertension Expertise**

Managing hypertension often requires the expertise of specialists. Access to cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists), and endocrinologists (hormone specialists) is essential.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital** offers cardiology services, including diagnosis and treatment of heart conditions. The availability of specialized hypertension clinics may vary, so it's important to inquire directly about their specific programs.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center** boasts a more extensive network of specialists. Their cardiology department is well-regarded, and they likely offer more specialized hypertension-focused programs and clinics.

**Telehealth: Remote Monitoring and Convenience**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Remote monitoring allows for regular blood pressure checks and medication adjustments without frequent in-person visits.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital** is increasingly incorporating telehealth services. Patients can potentially utilize telehealth for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center** has a robust telehealth program. They likely offer a wider range of telehealth options, including remote patient monitoring programs and virtual consultations with specialists.

**Specific Considerations for Hypertension Patients**

Beyond general hospital quality, several factors are particularly relevant for hypertension patients.

* **Cardiology Expertise:** The quality of the cardiology department is paramount. Look for hospitals with board-certified cardiologists specializing in hypertension management.
* **Access to Diagnostic Testing:** Hospitals should offer comprehensive diagnostic testing, including electrocardiograms (EKGs), echocardiograms, and stress tests.
* **Medication Management Support:** Hospitals should provide support for medication management, including education on medication adherence and potential side effects.
* **Lifestyle Counseling:** Access to lifestyle counseling, including dietary guidance and exercise recommendations, is crucial for managing hypertension.
* **Patient Education:** Hospitals should offer educational resources and programs to help patients understand their condition and manage it effectively.

**Navigating the System: Practical Tips**

* **Check Insurance Coverage:** Before choosing a hospital or specialist, verify that they are in your insurance network.
* **Ask About Hypertension Programs:** Inquire about specific hypertension programs and clinics offered by each hospital.
* **Research Physician Credentials:** Research the credentials and experience of the physicians you are considering.
* **Read Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews from other patients to get insights into their experiences.
* **Prepare for Appointments:** Bring a list of your medications, allergies, and medical history to all appointments.

**The Verdict: Weighing the Options**

For residents of the 28547 ZIP code, the choice of healthcare providers is a balance of proximity, quality, and specialized services.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital** offers the convenience of being the closest option, with cardiology services and an evolving telehealth program.

**New Hanover Regional Medical Center** in Wilmington, NC, provides a broader range of specialists, potentially more advanced hypertension programs, and a robust telehealth infrastructure, but requires a longer travel time.

**Naval Hospital Camp Lejeune** is a critical resource for military personnel and their families.

**The "Hypertension Score" is not a singular number.** It's a multifaceted evaluation based on CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty care availability, and telehealth capabilities. The best choice depends on individual needs and priorities. Residents should carefully consider these factors, research their options, and make informed decisions in partnership with their healthcare providers.