03234, Epsom, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 03234, Epsom, New Hampshire is 55 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 03234**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when dealing with a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review analyzes hospitals near ZIP code 03234 (Concord, New Hampshire) to assess their capacity to manage hypertension, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a factual, unbiased overview to assist residents in making informed healthcare choices.

**Flagship Hospital: Concord Hospital**

Concord Hospital, located within the 03234 ZIP code, is the primary healthcare provider in the immediate area. According to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), Concord Hospital holds a respectable three-star rating. While not the highest possible score, this indicates an average performance compared to other hospitals nationwide. CMS star ratings are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience.

**Emergency Room Performance**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial consideration, particularly for individuals experiencing a hypertensive crisis. Unfortunately, precise, real-time ER wait times are often difficult to obtain publicly. However, data from CMS and other sources can provide a general sense of efficiency. Concord Hospital’s ER performance should be investigated directly, as this information is not always readily available. Contacting the hospital directly or checking online resources like the hospital’s website or third-party healthcare comparison sites may offer insights into average wait times.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Concord Hospital has a cardiology department, which is central to hypertension management. Cardiologists specialize in diagnosing and treating heart and blood vessel conditions, including hypertension. The availability of a dedicated cardiology team is a significant advantage for patients with hypertension. The hospital’s website or direct inquiry can reveal the specific services offered, such as advanced imaging, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation programs.

**Telehealth Capabilities**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, communicate with their physicians, and receive medication management. Concord Hospital’s telehealth offerings, if any, should be investigated. Does the hospital offer virtual appointments with cardiologists or primary care physicians? Are there remote blood pressure monitoring programs available? These factors can significantly improve access to care and convenience for patients.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

While Concord Hospital is the primary facility, residents of the 03234 ZIP code may also consider hospitals in the surrounding areas. Analyzing these alternative options is vital to ensure the best possible care.

**Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH)**

Located approximately 20 miles south of Concord, Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester is a potential option. CMC is a larger hospital with a four-star CMS rating, indicating a higher overall performance than Concord Hospital. This higher rating suggests better outcomes and a more positive patient experience.

**ER Wait Times at Catholic Medical Center**

Similar to Concord Hospital, precise, real-time ER wait times at CMC may not be publicly available. However, research into the hospital’s website or third-party healthcare comparison sites may offer insights into average wait times.

**Specialty Centers at Catholic Medical Center**

CMC boasts a comprehensive cardiology program, including a cardiac catheterization lab, electrophysiology services, and cardiac surgery capabilities. These advanced services are crucial for managing complex hypertension cases and related cardiovascular complications.

**Telehealth at Catholic Medical Center**

CMC’s telehealth capabilities should be researched. Does the hospital offer virtual appointments with cardiologists or primary care physicians? Are there remote blood pressure monitoring programs available?

**Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH)**

Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (DHMC), located approximately 60 miles northwest of Concord, is a highly regarded academic medical center. DHMC has a five-star CMS rating, signifying exceptional performance.

**ER Wait Times at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center**

DHMC’s ER wait times should be investigated. The hospital’s website or third-party healthcare comparison sites may offer insights into average wait times.

**Specialty Centers at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center**

DHMC’s cardiology department is renowned for its expertise and research. The hospital offers a full spectrum of cardiovascular services, including advanced imaging, interventional procedures, and cardiac surgery. DHMC's reputation for excellence in cardiac care makes it a strong option for patients with complex hypertension cases.

**Telehealth at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center**

DHMC has invested significantly in telehealth. The hospital likely offers a range of virtual services, including appointments with cardiologists, remote monitoring programs, and medication management support. DHMC's telehealth capabilities are likely more robust than those of smaller hospitals.

**Other Considerations: Access to Care and Insurance**

Beyond hospital quality and services, access to care and insurance coverage are critical factors. Residents of the 03234 ZIP code should assess their insurance coverage and the hospitals’ network affiliations. Does the hospital accept their insurance plan? Are there any out-of-pocket costs associated with care? Transportation to and from the hospital is another consideration, especially for those with mobility issues or limited access to transportation.

**Physician Availability and Continuity of Care**

The availability of qualified physicians, particularly cardiologists and primary care physicians, is crucial for managing hypertension. Does the hospital have a sufficient number of specialists? Does the hospital offer a patient portal or other tools to help patients manage their care and communicate with their physicians? Continuity of care is essential for hypertension management. Patients should strive to establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can coordinate their care and refer them to specialists as needed.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are vital indicators of quality of care. Reviewing patient reviews and testimonials can provide insights into the hospital’s culture, communication, and overall patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Vitals often provide patient reviews.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Decisions**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration of various factors. Concord Hospital, the primary provider in the 03234 ZIP code, offers essential services, but its CMS rating is average. Catholic Medical Center and Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center, while located further away, offer higher CMS ratings and potentially more comprehensive cardiology services.

Residents should research each hospital's specific offerings, including ER wait times, cardiology services, telehealth capabilities, and patient reviews. Access to care, insurance coverage, and physician availability are also critical considerations. By carefully evaluating these factors, residents can make informed decisions and choose the hospital that best meets their individual needs and provides the highest quality of care for managing hypertension.