37617, Blountville, Tennessee Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 37617, Blountville, Tennessee is 19 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Help: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 37617

Navigating a hypertension diagnosis can be overwhelming. Finding the right hospital, with the right expertise and resources, is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 37617 (Blountville, Tennessee), offering a fact-rich look at their capabilities in managing hypertension, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. Remember, this information is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.

**The Landscape: Hospitals in the Region**

The primary healthcare providers serving the 37617 area are located in nearby cities like Bristol, Kingsport, and Johnson City. These cities offer a range of hospital options, from large, regional medical centers to smaller, specialized facilities. Proximity and access to specialized care are key considerations for individuals managing hypertension.

**Ballad Health System: A Dominant Presence**

Ballad Health is a major player in the region, operating several hospitals that serve the 37617 area. Their presence significantly impacts access to care for hypertension patients.

**Bristol Regional Medical Center (Bristol, TN):** Bristol Regional Medical Center is a flagship facility within the Ballad Health system. As of the latest available data, it holds a 3-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality of care, including measures relevant to hypertension management. While not the highest rating, it indicates a standard of care that is consistently assessed and monitored.

Emergency room wait times at Bristol Regional Medical Center fluctuate. Publicly available data, often found on websites like ERWaitTimes.net, should be consulted for the most up-to-date information. Shorter wait times are beneficial, particularly in situations where rapid intervention is needed for hypertensive crises.

Bristol Regional Medical Center has a cardiology department that is key for hypertension management. The department offers diagnostic services, including echocardiograms and stress tests, which are essential for evaluating heart health in patients with hypertension. They also provide interventional cardiology services, such as angioplasty and stenting, for patients with related cardiovascular issues.

Telehealth services are increasingly important for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Ballad Health, including Bristol Regional Medical Center, has expanded its telehealth offerings. Patients can potentially access virtual consultations with cardiologists and other specialists, allowing for convenient monitoring of blood pressure and medication adjustments. The availability and specific services offered through telehealth should be confirmed directly with the hospital.

**Holston Valley Medical Center (Kingsport, TN):** Another significant Ballad Health facility, Holston Valley Medical Center, is located in Kingsport, a short drive from 37617. Holston Valley also has a cardiology department, offering similar services to Bristol Regional Medical Center.

The CMS star rating for Holston Valley Medical Center should be checked. As with all hospitals, ratings can change, so it's essential to consult the latest CMS data.

ER wait times at Holston Valley Medical Center, like Bristol Regional, are dynamic. Checking online resources for the most current wait times is recommended.

Holston Valley Medical Center offers a range of specialty centers, including those focused on heart health. These centers provide comprehensive care for patients with cardiovascular conditions, which often includes hypertension.

Telehealth options are available at Holston Valley Medical Center, as part of the Ballad Health system. Patients should inquire about the specific telehealth services offered by the cardiology department.

**Johnson City Medical Center (Johnson City, TN):** Johnson City Medical Center, also part of Ballad Health, is another option for residents near 37617. This hospital offers a full range of services, including cardiology.

The CMS star rating for Johnson City Medical Center is a key factor in evaluating its overall quality. Check the latest CMS data for the most accurate rating.

ER wait times at Johnson City Medical Center should be researched using available online resources.

Johnson City Medical Center boasts a robust cardiology program, with access to advanced diagnostic and treatment options for hypertension-related conditions.

Telehealth services are available, offering convenient access to specialists for monitoring and consultations.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond the general cardiology departments, hospitals in the region often have specialized programs and centers that can benefit hypertension patients. These include:

* **Heart Failure Clinics:** These clinics provide comprehensive care for patients with heart failure, a condition often linked to uncontrolled hypertension. They offer specialized monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

* **Cardiac Rehabilitation Programs:** These programs help patients recover from heart attacks, heart surgery, or other cardiac events. They include supervised exercise, education, and support to improve cardiovascular health and manage hypertension.

* **Vascular Centers:** These centers focus on the health of blood vessels, which are directly affected by hypertension. They offer diagnostic testing and treatment for conditions such as peripheral artery disease, which can be exacerbated by high blood pressure.

**Telehealth: A Growing Trend**

Telehealth is rapidly changing healthcare delivery, particularly for chronic conditions like hypertension. The benefits include:

* **Convenience:** Patients can access care from the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for travel and time off work.
* **Remote Monitoring:** Blood pressure can be monitored remotely using connected devices, allowing healthcare providers to track trends and make timely adjustments to medication or lifestyle recommendations.
* **Improved Access to Specialists:** Telehealth can connect patients with specialists who may not be readily available in their local area.
* **Education and Support:** Telehealth platforms often offer educational resources and support groups to help patients manage their hypertension effectively.

**Important Considerations**

* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that your insurance plan covers the hospital and specialists you choose.
* **Physician Referrals:** Your primary care physician can provide valuable guidance and referrals to cardiologists or other specialists.
* **Patient Reviews:** Online reviews can provide insights into patient experiences, but should be considered alongside other factors.
* **Hospital Accreditation:** Look for hospitals accredited by reputable organizations, such as The Joint Commission, which indicates a commitment to quality and safety.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management near 37617 involves considering several factors, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options. Ballad Health hospitals, particularly Bristol Regional Medical Center, Holston Valley Medical Center, and Johnson City Medical Center, are major players in the region. Each offers cardiology services, with varying levels of specialization and access to telehealth. By researching these factors and consulting with your physician, you can make an informed decision about where to receive the best possible care for your hypertension. Remember to always verify the most up-to-date information directly with the hospitals and your healthcare providers.