29584, Patrick, South Carolina Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 29584, Patrick, South Carolina is 63 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Help Near Surfside Beach: A Hospital Scorecard for ZIP Code 29584

Residents of Surfside Beach, South Carolina (ZIP code 29584), and the surrounding areas have access to a range of healthcare options for managing hypertension, a serious condition that significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. This review examines the hospitals closest to this coastal community, focusing on factors crucial for hypertension care: quality ratings, emergency room efficiency, specialized cardiology services, and the availability of telehealth.

**Understanding the Landscape: Proximity and Options**

The primary hospitals serving the 29584 ZIP code are concentrated in the Myrtle Beach area, a short drive from Surfside Beach. These facilities offer varying levels of care, from comprehensive tertiary centers to community hospitals focused on primary and secondary care. Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration of these differences.

**Grand Strand Medical Center: A Flagship with Mixed Reviews**

Grand Strand Medical Center, located in Myrtle Beach, is often considered the flagship hospital in the region. It's a large facility with a wide range of services, including a dedicated cardiology department. However, its performance, as measured by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) star ratings, presents a mixed picture. While CMS ratings are a helpful tool, they shouldn't be the only factor in your decision-making process.

Grand Strand Medical Center currently holds a three-star rating from CMS. This rating reflects the hospital's performance across various quality measures, including patient safety, effectiveness of care, and patient experience. While not the highest possible rating, it indicates a level of quality that meets national standards.

**Emergency Room Considerations: Wait Times and Efficiency**

For individuals experiencing hypertensive crises or related emergencies, emergency room wait times are a critical concern. Grand Strand Medical Center’s ER typically experiences moderate wait times, but these can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients. Patients should be aware that wait times are publicly available and can be checked online.

**Specialized Cardiology at Grand Strand**

Grand Strand Medical Center boasts a cardiology department equipped to handle a wide array of cardiovascular conditions, including hypertension. The department offers diagnostic services such as echocardiograms, stress tests, and cardiac catheterizations. They also provide interventional cardiology procedures, including angioplasty and stenting, for patients with blocked arteries, which can be directly related to uncontrolled hypertension.

**Telehealth Integration at Grand Strand**

Telehealth services are becoming increasingly important for chronic disease management, and Grand Strand Medical Center has integrated telehealth options into its services. These services allow patients to connect with their physicians remotely for follow-up appointments, medication management, and education. This is particularly beneficial for hypertension patients, allowing for regular monitoring and adjustments to treatment plans without the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Carolina Coastal Hospital: A Community Focus**

Carolina Coastal Hospital, also located in the Myrtle Beach area, offers a more community-focused approach to healthcare. While smaller than Grand Strand, it provides essential services, including primary care, and has a focus on patient experience.

**CMS Ratings and ER Efficiency at Carolina Coastal**

Carolina Coastal Hospital’s CMS star rating is generally in line with other regional hospitals. ER wait times at Carolina Coastal are generally shorter than at Grand Strand, making it a potentially attractive option for urgent care needs.

**Cardiology Services at Carolina Coastal**

Carolina Coastal Hospital offers cardiology services, although they may not be as extensive as those at Grand Strand. They provide diagnostic testing and may refer patients with complex cardiac conditions to larger facilities.

**Telehealth Initiatives at Carolina Coastal**

Carolina Coastal Hospital has also embraced telehealth, offering remote consultations and monitoring for patients with chronic conditions. This is especially important for hypertension patients who benefit from regular check-ins and medication management.

**McLeod Health: A Regional Network with a Myrtle Beach Presence**

McLeod Health, a larger regional healthcare system, has a presence in the Myrtle Beach area, offering another option for residents of ZIP code 29584. McLeod Health operates multiple facilities, and patients should check which facility is closest and offers the best care for their needs.

**CMS Ratings and ER Performance at McLeod Health**

McLeod Health facilities generally have CMS star ratings comparable to other hospitals in the area. ER wait times can vary depending on the specific location within the McLeod network.

**Cardiology Expertise at McLeod Health**

McLeod Health offers comprehensive cardiology services, including diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. They have a dedicated cardiology team that is well-equipped to manage hypertension and its complications.

**Telehealth Capabilities at McLeod Health**

McLeod Health has invested heavily in telehealth, providing a range of virtual care options for patients. This includes virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and educational programs, which are valuable tools for managing hypertension.

**Other Considerations: Physician Availability and Insurance Coverage**

Beyond hospital-specific factors, residents of 29584 should also consider the availability of qualified cardiologists and primary care physicians in their area. Patients should research physician credentials, experience, and patient reviews. Insurance coverage is also a critical factor, and patients should verify that their preferred hospitals and physicians are in their insurance network.

**The Role of Primary Care Physicians**

Primary care physicians (PCPs) play a vital role in hypertension management. They are often the first point of contact for patients with high blood pressure, providing initial diagnoses, medication prescriptions, and ongoing monitoring. PCPs can also refer patients to cardiologists for specialized care if needed.

**The Importance of Patient Education**

Effective hypertension management requires patient education and engagement. Hospitals and healthcare providers in the 29584 area offer educational programs and resources to help patients understand their condition, manage their medications, and adopt healthy lifestyle habits.

**Lifestyle Modifications: A Crucial Component**

Lifestyle modifications are a cornerstone of hypertension management. These include:

* **Diet:** Following a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet, which emphasizes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low-fat dairy products.
* **Exercise:** Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 150 minutes per week.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight or losing weight if overweight or obese.
* **Sodium Reduction:** Limiting sodium intake to less than 2,300 milligrams per day.
* **Alcohol Consumption:** Limiting alcohol consumption to moderate levels.
* **Smoking Cessation:** Quitting smoking.

**Telehealth's Growing Role in Hypertension Management**

Telehealth is transforming hypertension management by providing convenient access to care and promoting patient adherence to treatment plans. Telehealth platforms allow patients to:

* **Monitor Blood Pressure:** Use home blood pressure monitors and transmit readings to their healthcare providers.
* **Receive Medication Management:** Have their medications adjusted remotely by their physicians.
* **Attend Virtual Appointments:** Participate in virtual consultations with their doctors.
* **Access Educational Resources:** Receive educational materials and support online.

**Conclusion: Navigating Hypertension Care in 29584**

Residents of Surfside Beach (29584) have several options for managing hypertension. Grand Strand Medical Center, Carolina Coastal Hospital, and McLeod Health all offer cardiology services and telehealth options. Choosing the best hospital requires a careful assessment of individual needs, preferences, and insurance coverage. Patients should also prioritize finding a qualified primary care physician and actively participate in their own care by adopting healthy lifestyle habits and following their healthcare provider's recommendations. By taking a proactive approach, residents of 29584 can effectively manage hypertension and improve their overall health.