44880, Sullivan, Ohio Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 44880, Sullivan, Ohio is 59 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 44880**

Navigating healthcare, particularly when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed choices. This review examines hospitals in proximity to ZIP code 44880 (Sandusky, Ohio) to assess their capabilities in hypertension care, considering factors like quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized services, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to provide a fact-rich overview to aid residents in making informed healthcare decisions.

**Proximity and General Overview**

The primary healthcare providers serving Sandusky and the surrounding areas are Firelands Regional Medical Center, Fisher-Titus Medical Center (Norwalk), and Bellevue Hospital. These hospitals are the closest options for residents of 44880, each offering a range of services, including emergency care, inpatient services, and outpatient clinics. The choice of hospital often depends on individual needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences.

**Firelands Regional Medical Center: A Deep Dive**

Firelands Regional Medical Center, located in Sandusky, is a major regional hospital. It is a 3-star rated hospital by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally acceptable level of quality. CMS star ratings are based on a variety of measures, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and patient experience. Firelands Regional Medical Center’s emergency room wait times are a key consideration. While specific real-time data fluctuates, it's generally advisable to check current wait times online or by phone before arriving, especially during peak hours. The hospital has a dedicated cardiology department, essential for hypertension management. This department provides diagnostic services like echocardiograms and stress tests, along with interventional cardiology procedures. Firelands also offers a comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation program to help patients recover and manage their condition. Telehealth services are available, though specific details on hypertension-related telehealth appointments should be confirmed directly with the hospital. Firelands Regional Medical Center is also a member of the Cleveland Clinic Health System.

**Fisher-Titus Medical Center: Exploring Norwalk's Options**

Fisher-Titus Medical Center in Norwalk offers another option for residents near 44880. Fisher-Titus is also a 3-star rated hospital by CMS. The hospital’s emergency room wait times are an important factor to consider. Checking online resources or calling ahead for current wait times is recommended. Fisher-Titus provides cardiology services, including diagnostic testing and treatment options. The hospital's cardiac rehabilitation program is a valuable resource for patients recovering from cardiac events or managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth services are available at Fisher-Titus. Patients should inquire about specific telehealth appointments related to hypertension management.

**Bellevue Hospital: A Community-Focused Approach**

Bellevue Hospital, a smaller community hospital, serves the Bellevue area and may be an option for some residents of 44880. Bellevue Hospital does not have a CMS star rating. This doesn't necessarily indicate poor quality, but rather that the hospital may not have sufficient data to be rated by CMS. Emergency room wait times at Bellevue Hospital are generally shorter than at larger hospitals, but this can vary. Bellevue Hospital offers cardiology services, and patients should confirm the scope of these services, including diagnostic capabilities and treatment options. Telehealth services are available at Bellevue Hospital. Patients should inquire about specific telehealth appointments related to hypertension management.

**Specialty Centers and Resources**

Beyond the general cardiology departments, the availability of specialized centers can significantly impact hypertension care. Neither Firelands Regional Medical Center nor Fisher-Titus Medical Center have dedicated, standalone hypertension centers. However, both hospitals have cardiology departments that offer comprehensive services. The presence of specialists, such as cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists, crucial for hypertension-related kidney complications), and endocrinologists (hormone specialists, as hormonal imbalances can contribute to hypertension), is crucial. Patients with complex hypertension cases may benefit from consultations with these specialists. Both hospitals offer access to these specialists through their affiliated medical groups.

**Telehealth: The Modern Approach**

Telehealth is increasingly important for hypertension management, offering convenience and accessibility. Both Firelands Regional Medical Center and Fisher-Titus Medical Center offer telehealth services. The specific telehealth offerings for hypertension management can vary, including virtual consultations with cardiologists, medication management reviews, and remote monitoring of blood pressure. Patients should inquire directly with each hospital to determine the availability and scope of telehealth services. The ability to remotely monitor blood pressure, receive medication adjustments, and have virtual follow-up appointments can significantly improve adherence to treatment plans and overall hypertension control.

**Emergency Room Efficiency: A Critical Factor**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, especially for patients experiencing hypertensive crises or other cardiovascular emergencies. Real-time wait times fluctuate, so checking online resources or calling the hospital before arriving is always recommended. Shorter wait times can translate to quicker access to critical care. Firelands Regional Medical Center and Fisher-Titus Medical Center are the primary choices for emergency care near 44880.

**Patient Experience and Satisfaction**

Patient experience and satisfaction are important indicators of overall care quality. CMS star ratings include patient experience scores. Patient reviews on websites like Healthgrades and Vitals can provide valuable insights into individual experiences with hospitals and physicians.

**Conclusion: Making Informed Choices**

Residents of 44880 have access to several hospitals offering hypertension care. Firelands Regional Medical Center and Fisher-Titus Medical Center are the primary options, with Bellevue Hospital providing a more local option. Both Firelands and Fisher-Titus have CMS star ratings, and both offer cardiology services, though neither has a dedicated hypertension center. Telehealth services are available at both hospitals, and emergency room wait times should be considered. Choosing the right hospital involves considering individual needs, insurance coverage, and personal preferences. Consulting with a primary care physician or cardiologist is recommended to determine the best course of action for managing hypertension. Patients should actively inquire about specific services, specialist availability, and telehealth options to make the most informed decisions.