28551, La Grange, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28551, La Grange, North Carolina is 37 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28551)

Living near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28551) presents a unique set of healthcare considerations, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension. Access to quality medical care, including specialized hypertension management, is crucial. This review assesses the available options, focusing on key metrics like hospital quality, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth availability, to provide a comprehensive "Hypertension Score" perspective for residents.

**The Landscape of Healthcare in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the Jacksonville area are primarily located in Onslow County, with some options extending into neighboring counties like Craven and Carteret. The key players include acute care hospitals, outpatient clinics, and various specialty practices. Access to specialists, including cardiologists and nephrologists, is vital for effective hypertension treatment.

**The Flagship: Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune**

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL) stands as a significant healthcare provider, serving active-duty military personnel, veterans, and their families. While not directly accessible to the general public, NMCCL's presence significantly impacts the region's healthcare infrastructure. The hospital is accredited by The Joint Commission, signifying adherence to quality standards. While CMS star ratings are not applicable to military hospitals, NMCCL's commitment to quality is evident through its accreditation and its role in training medical professionals. NMCCL offers a comprehensive range of services, including cardiology and nephrology, crucial for hypertension management. ER wait times are typically managed within the military healthcare system, but access for non-military personnel is restricted. Telehealth services are integrated into the military healthcare system, providing remote consultations and follow-up care.

**Regional Hospital Options: Focus on Quality and Access**

Outside of NMCCL, the primary hospital option for residents near ZIP code 28551 is **Onslow Memorial Hospital (OMH)** in Jacksonville. OMH is a 162-bed acute care facility. CMS data shows that OMH has a 3-star rating. This rating reflects performance across various quality measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. While not a top-tier rating, it still indicates a commitment to quality care.

OMH’s cardiology department is a key resource for hypertension management. They provide diagnostic services, including echocardiograms and stress tests, and offer treatment options such as medication management and lifestyle counseling. Nephrology services, essential for managing hypertension-related kidney complications, are also available.

Emergency room wait times at OMH are a critical factor. While specific real-time data fluctuates, the average wait times are typically available through online resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms. Longer wait times can be a concern for individuals experiencing hypertensive crises.

**Specialty Centers and Outpatient Care**

Beyond the main hospitals, several specialty centers and outpatient clinics contribute to hypertension care in the area. Cardiology practices, both independent and affiliated with hospitals, offer specialized expertise. These practices often provide comprehensive hypertension management, including medication adjustments, lifestyle recommendations, and monitoring. Nephrology clinics are crucial for patients with hypertension-related kidney disease.

Outpatient clinics and primary care physicians play a vital role in hypertension management. Regular check-ups, blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills are often handled in these settings. The availability of these services is generally good in the Jacksonville area, but access can be impacted by factors like insurance coverage and appointment availability.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. OMH offers telehealth options, providing patients with remote access to physicians for consultations, follow-up appointments, and medication management. The availability of telehealth can significantly improve access to care, especially for patients in rural areas or those with mobility limitations.

Telehealth utilization statistics vary, but the trend is toward increased adoption. The convenience of virtual appointments, coupled with the ability to monitor blood pressure remotely using home devices, makes telehealth an attractive option for many patients.

**Comparing Hospitals: A Hypertension Score Framework**

Creating a "Hypertension Score" requires evaluating several factors. This framework considers the following:

* **Hospital Quality (CMS Star Rating):** Higher ratings indicate better performance on quality measures.
* **Specialty Services (Cardiology, Nephrology):** Availability of specialists is crucial for comprehensive care.
* **ER Wait Times:** Shorter wait times are critical in emergency situations.
* **Telehealth Availability:** Access to remote consultations and monitoring enhances care.

**Applying the Framework to the Jacksonville Area**

Based on the available data, a hypothetical "Hypertension Score" assessment for hospitals near ZIP code 28551 might look like this:

* **Onslow Memorial Hospital:** CMS Star Rating (3 stars), Cardiology and Nephrology Services (Available), ER Wait Times (Variable, monitor real-time data), Telehealth (Available).
* **Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune:** Accreditation (The Joint Commission), Cardiology and Nephrology Services (Available), ER Wait Times (Managed within the system), Telehealth (Integrated).

**Beyond Hospitals: The Importance of Lifestyle and Prevention**

Effective hypertension management extends beyond hospital care. Lifestyle modifications, including diet, exercise, and stress reduction, are crucial. Access to resources like nutritionists, exercise programs, and mental health services can support these efforts.

**Community Resources:**

The Onslow County Health Department offers resources and programs related to chronic disease management, including hypertension. Community health centers and non-profit organizations may provide additional support and education.

**The Verdict: Navigating Hypertension Care in Jacksonville**

Residents near ZIP code 28551 have access to healthcare resources for hypertension management, with Onslow Memorial Hospital serving as the primary acute care facility. NMCCL provides additional resources, though access is limited. The availability of cardiology and nephrology specialists is crucial, and the presence of telehealth services enhances access to care.

While OMH's CMS rating is a consideration, the availability of specialty services and telehealth options suggests a reasonable level of care. However, monitoring ER wait times and actively engaging in lifestyle modifications are essential components of effective hypertension management. Individuals should discuss their specific needs and preferences with their primary care physicians to develop a personalized treatment plan.

**Disclaimer:** *This review is based on publicly available information and is intended for informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Healthcare access and quality can vary. Always consult with your physician for diagnosis and treatment.*