28677, Statesville, North Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 28677, Statesville, North Carolina is 6 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near ZIP Code 28677**

This review assesses the quality of hypertension care offered by hospitals in proximity to ZIP code 28677, focusing on factors critical for patients managing this prevalent condition. The evaluation considers CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, telehealth capabilities, and other relevant metrics. This information is vital for informed healthcare decisions, particularly for individuals seeking optimal hypertension management.

**Understanding Hypertension and Its Management**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a serious medical condition increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Effective management involves lifestyle modifications, medication, and regular monitoring. Access to high-quality healthcare, including prompt diagnosis, appropriate treatment, and ongoing support, is crucial for patients.

**Proximity Considerations: The Geographic Scope**

The analysis focuses on hospitals within a reasonable driving distance of ZIP code 28677 (Statesville, North Carolina). This geographical scope ensures accessibility for residents seeking care. The review will prioritize hospitals within a 30- to 60-minute radius, acknowledging that travel times can vary based on traffic and location within the ZIP code.

**Key Hospitals and Their Performance**

**Iredell Memorial Hospital (Statesville, NC):** Located directly within the target ZIP code, Iredell Memorial Hospital is a primary healthcare provider for the community. It is a 300-bed facility. Iredell Memorial Hospital has a 3-star rating from CMS. The hospital's ER wait times are generally in line with the national average, but can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Iredell Memorial offers a cardiology department with specialized services for heart conditions, including hypertension. Telehealth services are available for some follow-up appointments and consultations.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health – Davie Medical Center (Bermuda Run, NC):** Situated a short drive from Statesville, Davie Medical Center is part of the larger Wake Forest Baptist Health system. This hospital boasts a 4-star CMS rating, reflecting a higher overall quality of care. ER wait times are typically shorter compared to Iredell Memorial. Davie Medical Center has a robust cardiology program, offering comprehensive services for hypertension management. The hospital is actively expanding its telehealth capabilities, providing remote monitoring and virtual consultations for patients with chronic conditions.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center (Winston-Salem, NC):** While further afield, the flagship hospital of the Wake Forest Baptist Health system in Winston-Salem is a major referral center. It is a Level I trauma center. CMS gives the hospital a 4-star rating. ER wait times can vary depending on the time of day and patient volume. The hospital has a highly specialized cardiology program with advanced diagnostic and treatment options for complex hypertension cases. The Medical Center has a comprehensive telehealth program, including remote patient monitoring, virtual visits, and educational resources for patients.

**Specialized Centers and Services**

Hospitals with dedicated cardiology centers and specialized hypertension clinics are particularly beneficial. These centers often have experienced cardiologists, nurses, and support staff dedicated to managing hypertension. They may offer advanced diagnostic testing, such as ambulatory blood pressure monitoring, and access to the latest treatment options.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring Capabilities**

Telehealth plays an increasingly important role in hypertension management. Remote patient monitoring allows healthcare providers to track patients' blood pressure readings, medication adherence, and other vital signs remotely. This can improve patient outcomes by enabling timely intervention and adjustments to treatment plans. Hospitals with robust telehealth programs are better equipped to provide ongoing support and care for patients with hypertension.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant consideration, especially for patients experiencing hypertensive crises. Shorter wait times can lead to faster diagnosis and treatment, potentially preventing complications. This review will consider publicly available data on ER wait times for each hospital.

**CMS Star Ratings: A General Indicator**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of hospital quality. While not the sole determinant of quality, these ratings offer a useful starting point for evaluating hospitals. Hospitals with higher star ratings generally demonstrate better performance across a range of quality metrics.

**Specific Metrics for Hypertension Care**

Beyond general quality indicators, this review will examine specific metrics related to hypertension care. These include:

* **Percentage of patients with controlled blood pressure:** This metric reflects the effectiveness of the hospital's hypertension management programs.
* **Adherence to guidelines for hypertension treatment:** Hospitals should follow established guidelines for diagnosing, treating, and monitoring hypertension.
* **Use of evidence-based medications:** The appropriate use of medications is essential for effective hypertension management.
* **Patient education and support:** Providing patients with education and support is crucial for promoting self-management and adherence to treatment plans.

**Hospital-Specific Analysis**

**Iredell Memorial Hospital:** As the local hospital, Iredell Memorial Hospital provides convenient access to care. Patients should inquire about the hospital's specific hypertension management protocols, including the availability of specialized services and patient education programs. The hospital's 3-star rating suggests a need for improvement in certain areas.

**Wake Forest Baptist Health – Davie Medical Center:** Davie Medical Center's higher CMS rating and shorter ER wait times may make it an attractive option for patients. The hospital's affiliation with a larger healthcare system provides access to a broader range of resources and expertise.

**Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Medical Center:** The flagship Medical Center in Winston-Salem offers advanced cardiology services and comprehensive telehealth capabilities. This hospital is a good option for patients with complex hypertension cases or those seeking specialized care. The longer travel time is a factor.

**Patient Considerations and Recommendations**

Patients with hypertension should consider several factors when choosing a hospital:

* **Proximity and accessibility:** The hospital's location and ease of access are important, especially for regular appointments and emergencies.
* **Specialized services:** Hospitals with dedicated cardiology centers and hypertension clinics can provide more specialized care.
* **Telehealth capabilities:** Telehealth can improve access to care and facilitate remote monitoring.
* **ER wait times:** Shorter wait times are crucial for timely treatment of hypertensive crises.
* **Patient reviews and experiences:** Researching patient reviews can provide insights into the hospital's quality of care and patient satisfaction.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital is a crucial decision for individuals managing hypertension. This review provides a framework for evaluating hospitals near ZIP code 28677, considering factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. Patients should carefully weigh these factors and consider their individual needs and preferences when making their healthcare decisions. Further research, including contacting the hospitals directly and discussing specific needs with a primary care physician, is highly recommended. The best hospital is the one that best meets the individual needs of the patient, providing accessible, high-quality care for effective hypertension management.