28554, Maury, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28554, Maury, North Carolina is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near Jacksonville, NC (ZIP Code 28554)

Finding the right healthcare, especially when managing a chronic condition like hypertension, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near Jacksonville, North Carolina (ZIP code 28554), evaluating their strengths and weaknesses based on publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. While this review aims to provide helpful information, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician regarding your specific health needs.

**The Landscape of Care: Key Players**

The healthcare landscape around Jacksonville is primarily dominated by two major players: Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL) and Onslow Memorial Hospital. NMCCL, a military treatment facility, serves active-duty military personnel, their families, and retirees. Onslow Memorial Hospital is the primary civilian hospital in the area. Understanding the distinct roles of these institutions is essential for navigating local healthcare options.

**Onslow Memorial Hospital: A Civilian Hub**

Onslow Memorial Hospital, located in Jacksonville, is a 162-bed acute care facility. It is a vital resource for the civilian population of Onslow County. While it does not have a CMS star rating, reflecting the complexities of the rating system for smaller hospitals, its performance metrics are still important to consider. The hospital's website and publicly available data sources provide information on its quality of care, patient safety, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Dynamics: Wait Times and Access**

ER wait times are a critical factor, particularly for individuals with hypertension, where timely intervention can be life-saving. Onslow Memorial Hospital’s ER wait times are a key metric to consider. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, publicly available data often provides average wait times. Patients can also utilize resources like the hospital's website or third-party platforms to check current wait times, allowing for more informed decisions about seeking emergency care.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Onslow Memorial Hospital offers a range of specialty services. For hypertension management, access to cardiology services is crucial. The availability of cardiologists, including those specializing in hypertension, is a key consideration. The hospital's website provides information on its cardiology department, including physician profiles and the types of services offered, such as diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms) and treatment options.

**Telehealth: Expanding Access to Care**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Onslow Memorial Hospital has likely expanded its telehealth offerings. This can include virtual consultations with primary care physicians, specialists, and remote monitoring programs. Telehealth can be especially beneficial for follow-up appointments, medication management, and patient education, potentially reducing the need for in-person visits and improving patient adherence to treatment plans. Details about the specific telehealth services offered, including how to access them, are typically available on the hospital's website.

**Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune: Serving the Military Community**

Naval Medical Center Camp Lejeune (NMCCL) plays a vital role in providing healthcare to the military community in the area. While access is primarily limited to eligible beneficiaries, understanding its capabilities is important for those affiliated with the military. NMCCL provides a comprehensive range of services, including primary care, specialty care, and emergency services.

**NMCCL's Emergency Department and Specialty Care**

NMCCL’s emergency department is a critical resource for the military community. Similar to Onslow Memorial Hospital, understanding wait times is crucial. The hospital's website or military healthcare resources can provide information on average wait times and other relevant data. NMCCL also offers a wide array of specialty services, including cardiology. The availability of cardiologists and specialized hypertension care within NMCCL is a significant advantage for eligible beneficiaries.

**Telehealth at NMCCL**

NMCCL has likely implemented telehealth services to improve access to care for its beneficiaries. Telehealth can be particularly beneficial for military families, as it allows for virtual consultations and remote monitoring, regardless of deployment or relocation. Information on NMCCL's telehealth offerings, including how to access them, can be found on the hospital's website or through military healthcare portals.

**Beyond the Hospitals: Additional Considerations**

Beyond the two major hospitals, other healthcare providers in the area contribute to the overall healthcare ecosystem. These include outpatient clinics, urgent care centers, and private practices.

**Urgent Care Centers**

Urgent care centers can be a convenient option for non-emergency conditions, including those related to hypertension. These centers often offer extended hours and can provide basic medical services, such as blood pressure checks and medication refills. Several urgent care centers are located near Jacksonville, offering an alternative to the ER for less critical situations.

**Primary Care Physicians and Specialists**

Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician is essential for managing hypertension. Primary care physicians can monitor blood pressure, prescribe medications, and provide referrals to specialists if needed. The availability of primary care physicians and specialists, such as cardiologists and nephrologists (for kidney-related hypertension), is a key factor in accessing comprehensive hypertension care. Local directories, insurance provider websites, and online physician finders can help locate qualified healthcare providers in the area.

**Medication Access and Pharmacies**

Access to affordable medications is crucial for managing hypertension. Several pharmacies are located near Jacksonville, including national chains and independent pharmacies. Patients should be aware of their insurance coverage and compare medication prices to ensure they can afford their prescribed medications.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are important indicators of the quality of care. Publicly available data sources, such as patient surveys and online reviews, can provide insights into patient experiences at local hospitals and clinics. These sources can help assess factors such as communication with healthcare providers, the cleanliness of facilities, and overall satisfaction with the care received.

**Community Resources and Support**

Several community resources and support groups are available for individuals with hypertension. These resources can provide education, support, and access to valuable information. Local health departments, community centers, and non-profit organizations often offer programs related to chronic disease management, including hypertension.

**Navigating the System: Key Takeaways**

Navigating the healthcare system near Jacksonville, NC (28554), requires a proactive approach. Researching available options, understanding wait times, and utilizing telehealth services can significantly impact the quality of care received.

* **Prioritize Primary Care:** Establish a relationship with a primary care physician for ongoing monitoring and management.
* **Know Your Options:** Familiarize yourself with the services offered by Onslow Memorial Hospital and NMCCL, including their ER wait times and specialty centers.
* **Embrace Telehealth:** Utilize telehealth services for follow-up appointments, medication management, and remote monitoring.
* **Access Community Resources:** Explore local community resources and support groups for education and assistance.
* **Stay Informed:** Regularly check hospital websites and other public resources for updates on services, wait times, and other relevant information.
* **Communicate Effectively:** Openly communicate with your healthcare providers about your concerns and needs.

This review provides a starting point for understanding the healthcare landscape near Jacksonville, NC (28554). By conducting thorough research, seeking professional medical advice, and proactively engaging with the healthcare system, individuals with hypertension can optimize their care and improve their health outcomes. Remember, this is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your physician regarding your specific health needs.