37362, Old Fort, Tennessee Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 37362, Old Fort, Tennessee is 20 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 37362**

The residents of ZIP code 37362, encompassing the city of Ooltewah, Tennessee, have access to a range of healthcare facilities, each with its own strengths and weaknesses in the critical area of hypertension management. This review will delve into the key hospitals in the area, evaluating their performance based on metrics relevant to hypertension care, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities. The goal is to provide a comprehensive overview to help individuals make informed decisions about their healthcare needs.

**Parkridge Medical Center (Chattanooga, TN)**

Parkridge Medical Center, located in nearby Chattanooga, is a major player in the regional healthcare landscape. While not directly within the 37362 ZIP code, it serves a significant patient population from the Ooltewah area. Parkridge is a flagship hospital, and its performance is closely watched.

Parkridge Medical Center holds a three-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects a complex assessment of various factors, including patient outcomes, safety of care, and responsiveness. While a three-star rating indicates average performance, it is important to delve deeper into specific areas relevant to hypertension.

The hospital’s emergency room (ER) wait times are a crucial consideration. Publicly available data indicates that ER wait times at Parkridge can fluctuate. Patients should be prepared for potential delays, especially during peak hours. The hospital’s website and online resources often provide real-time wait time updates, which can be helpful for planning.

Parkridge features a dedicated cardiology department, which is essential for hypertension management. This department offers a range of services, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and interventional procedures. The hospital also has specialized centers for heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions, which can be beneficial for patients with hypertension-related complications.

Telehealth services are increasingly important in healthcare. Parkridge has expanded its telehealth offerings, including virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists. This can be particularly convenient for patients with hypertension who need regular check-ups and medication adjustments. The availability of telehealth can improve access to care, especially for those with mobility issues or who live in more rural areas.

**CHI Memorial Hospital (Chattanooga, TN)**

CHI Memorial Hospital, another prominent hospital in Chattanooga, also serves the Ooltewah area. It is a major competitor to Parkridge, and its performance is also a key consideration for residents of 37362.

CHI Memorial Hospital has a four-star CMS rating, indicating a higher level of overall quality compared to Parkridge. This suggests stronger performance in several key areas, including patient safety and outcomes. However, it is crucial to remember that CMS ratings are just one piece of the puzzle.

ER wait times at CHI Memorial are an important factor. Data on ER wait times can be found on the hospital’s website and other online resources. Patients should be aware of potential wait times and consider this when making healthcare decisions.

CHI Memorial has a robust cardiology program, offering a comprehensive range of services for hypertension management. The hospital’s cardiology department is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and staffed by experienced physicians. The hospital also has specialized centers for heart rhythm disorders and other cardiovascular conditions.

Telehealth services are available at CHI Memorial, including virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists. This can be a valuable resource for patients with hypertension, allowing them to access care from the comfort of their homes. The hospital continues to expand its telehealth offerings to meet the growing demand for virtual healthcare.

**Erlanger Health System (Chattanooga, TN)**

Erlanger Health System, with multiple campuses in Chattanooga, provides a broad spectrum of healthcare services to the region, including the Ooltewah area. Erlanger is a large, complex health system, and its performance varies across its different facilities.

Erlanger’s CMS star ratings vary depending on the specific hospital campus. Some campuses may have higher ratings than others. Patients should research the specific campus they are considering to understand its quality rating.

ER wait times at Erlanger can fluctuate, and it is important to check real-time wait times before going to the ER. The hospital system provides online resources with wait time information.

Erlanger has a comprehensive cardiology program, with services available across its various campuses. The system offers a full range of services for hypertension management, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and interventional procedures. Erlanger also has specialized centers for heart failure and other cardiovascular conditions.

Telehealth services are available at Erlanger, including virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists. The hospital system has invested in expanding its telehealth capabilities to improve access to care.

**Other Considerations**

Beyond the major hospitals, several other factors are important in assessing hypertension care in the 37362 area.

* **Physician Availability:** The availability of qualified cardiologists and primary care physicians in the Ooltewah area is crucial. Patients should research the physicians in their network and assess their experience and expertise in hypertension management.
* **Community Resources:** Access to community resources, such as support groups, educational programs, and exercise facilities, can play a significant role in managing hypertension. Patients should explore the resources available in their local community.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Insurance coverage is a critical factor in accessing healthcare services. Patients should understand their insurance plan’s coverage for hypertension-related services, including doctor visits, medications, and diagnostic tests.
* **Patient Experience:** Patient reviews and testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality of care at different hospitals and clinics. Patients should consult online reviews and talk to other patients to get a sense of the patient experience.

**Specifics on Hypertension Management**

When evaluating hospitals for hypertension care, specific aspects of their programs are crucial.

* **Blood Pressure Monitoring:** Hospitals should offer comprehensive blood pressure monitoring services, including ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) and home blood pressure monitoring education.
* **Medication Management:** Hospitals should have experienced pharmacists and physicians who can effectively manage hypertension medications, including prescribing, adjusting dosages, and monitoring for side effects.
* **Lifestyle Counseling:** Hospitals should provide lifestyle counseling, including guidance on diet, exercise, and stress management.
* **Specialized Services:** Hospitals should offer specialized services for patients with hypertension-related complications, such as heart failure, kidney disease, and stroke.
* **Emergency Care:** Hospitals should have efficient emergency departments that can quickly treat patients experiencing hypertensive crises.

**Conclusion**

The residents of ZIP code 37362 have access to several hospitals with varying strengths and weaknesses in hypertension care. Parkridge Medical Center, CHI Memorial Hospital, and Erlanger Health System are the major players, each offering a range of services. Patients should carefully consider factors such as CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, telehealth capabilities, physician availability, community resources, insurance coverage, and patient experience when making healthcare decisions. By conducting thorough research and seeking the advice of healthcare professionals, residents of 37362 can make informed choices about their hypertension care and improve their overall health outcomes. Regular check-ups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications are crucial for managing hypertension effectively.