03235, Franklin, New Hampshire Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 03235, Franklin, New Hampshire is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Evaluating Hospitals Near ZIP Code 03235

This review analyzes the hospitals closest to ZIP code 03235 (Concord, New Hampshire) to assess their capabilities in managing hypertension, a critical health concern. The evaluation focuses on factors relevant to hypertension care, including access to specialists, emergency services, telehealth options, and overall quality metrics. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview for residents seeking the best possible care for this prevalent condition.

**Primary Care Landscape and Referral Networks**

The foundation of hypertension management lies in effective primary care. In Concord, patients will find a network of primary care physicians (PCPs), including those affiliated with the major hospital systems. These PCPs are crucial for initial diagnosis, ongoing monitoring, and medication management. The ability of these PCPs to readily refer patients to specialists is a key indicator of a hospital's strength in hypertension care.

**Flagship Hospital: Concord Hospital**

Concord Hospital (250 Pleasant St, Concord, NH 03301) is the dominant healthcare provider in the area. As a 325-bed regional medical center, it serves as the primary referral center for the region. Concord Hospital boasts a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the sole determinant of quality, reflects a generally good performance across various quality metrics.

Concord Hospital's cardiology department is central to hypertension management. They offer a comprehensive range of services, including diagnostic testing (EKGs, echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional cardiology (angioplasty, stenting), and electrophysiology services for managing arrhythmias often associated with hypertension. The hospital has a dedicated cardiology clinic with multiple cardiologists, ensuring timely access to specialist consultations.

**Emergency Department Considerations**

Emergency department (ED) wait times are a crucial factor, especially for hypertensive emergencies. Concord Hospital's ED sees a significant volume of patients. Publicly available data indicates that average wait times can fluctuate, so it's important to check current wait times on their website or through third-party services before visiting. Extended wait times can be detrimental in situations requiring immediate intervention for dangerously elevated blood pressure.

**Specialty Centers and Resources**

Beyond cardiology, several other specialty centers at Concord Hospital contribute to hypertension management. The nephrology department, for instance, is essential for patients with hypertension-related kidney disease. The endocrinology department plays a role in managing hypertension associated with endocrine disorders. The hospital's comprehensive approach, including access to these specialists, is a significant advantage.

**Telehealth Integration**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in healthcare delivery, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Concord Hospital offers telehealth services, including virtual visits with primary care physicians and specialists. These virtual appointments can be valuable for medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and follow-up consultations, especially for patients with mobility limitations or those living in remote areas. The availability of telehealth options is a positive indicator of the hospital's commitment to patient convenience and accessibility.

**Other Hospitals in the Region**

While Concord Hospital is the primary provider, other hospitals within a reasonable driving distance may offer alternative options or specialized services.

* **Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (Lebanon, NH):** Located approximately an hour's drive from Concord, Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center (1 Medical Center Dr, Lebanon, NH 03756) is a major academic medical center with a 5-star CMS rating. This hospital offers a wide array of specialized services, including a renowned cardiology department and advanced treatment options. However, the distance may be a factor for some patients.
* **Catholic Medical Center (Manchester, NH):** Located about 30 minutes from Concord, Catholic Medical Center (100 McGregor St, Manchester, NH 03102) is another option. It also has a cardiology department, but its CMS star rating is lower than Concord Hospital or Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center.

**Factors to Consider When Choosing a Hospital**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care involves considering several factors:

* **Physician Network:** The patient's existing relationship with a primary care physician and their referral network is crucial.
* **Specialist Availability:** Access to cardiologists, nephrologists, and endocrinologists is essential.
* **Emergency Department Wait Times:** These can be critical in urgent situations.
* **Telehealth Options:** Virtual visits can improve access to care and convenience.
* **Hospital Ratings:** CMS star ratings provide a general indication of quality, but they should be considered alongside other factors.
* **Patient Reviews and Experiences:** Online reviews can offer insights into patient satisfaction and experiences.

**Specific Considerations for Hypertension Management**

Patients with hypertension require ongoing monitoring and management. The hospital's ability to provide these services is critical.

* **Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Access to convenient blood pressure monitoring devices and programs is beneficial.
* **Medication Management:** The hospital's pharmacy services and medication education programs are important.
* **Lifestyle Counseling:** Access to dietitians, exercise specialists, and smoking cessation programs can support lifestyle modifications.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** For patients with hypertension-related heart conditions, access to cardiac rehabilitation programs is essential.

**Conclusion**

For residents of ZIP code 03235, Concord Hospital emerges as the primary healthcare provider for hypertension management. Its 4-star CMS rating, comprehensive cardiology department, and access to other specialists make it a strong choice. However, patients should consider their individual needs and preferences, including the availability of their preferred physicians, ED wait times, and the potential benefits of accessing specialized services at Dartmouth Hitchcock Medical Center. The availability of telehealth services at Concord Hospital adds another layer of convenience and accessibility. Ultimately, the best hospital is the one that provides the most effective and convenient care for each individual patient's needs. Patients should proactively discuss their hypertension management needs with their primary care physician to determine the most appropriate care pathway.