38565, Grimsley, Tennessee Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 38565, Grimsley, Tennessee is 53 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 38565**

Navigating healthcare can be daunting, especially when dealing with a condition like hypertension, or high blood pressure. Finding a hospital equipped to handle hypertension effectively, offering timely care, and providing comprehensive support is crucial. This review focuses on hospitals near ZIP code 38565 (Livingston, Tennessee) to assess their suitability for hypertension patients, considering factors like quality ratings, wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Understanding the Importance of Hospital Selection**

Hypertension is a serious condition that significantly increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and kidney failure. Prompt and effective treatment is paramount. When choosing a hospital, patients should consider several factors: the hospital's overall quality, the availability of specialized cardiology services, the speed of emergency care, and the integration of telehealth options for ongoing management.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system to evaluate hospital performance. While no hospital within the immediate vicinity of 38565 currently boasts a 5-star rating, understanding the performance of nearby facilities is essential.

**Cookeville Regional Medical Center (Cookeville, TN):** Located approximately 30 minutes from Livingston, Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC) is a significant regional healthcare provider. While its CMS star rating fluctuates, it generally receives a solid rating. CRMC has a comprehensive cardiology department, including interventional cardiology services, crucial for treating hypertension-related complications. The hospital's emergency department is equipped to handle acute hypertension crises.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital (Sparta, TN):** Situated roughly 40 minutes from Livingston, Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital, part of the Ascension Health system, is another option. Its CMS star rating should be considered. The hospital offers a range of services, including cardiology, and its emergency department is available for urgent care.

**Evaluating Emergency Room Wait Times**

Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of a hospital's ability to provide timely care, particularly for hypertension patients who may experience hypertensive crises. Unfortunately, precise, real-time wait time data can be difficult to obtain. However, general trends and averages are available.

**Cookeville Regional Medical Center:** CRMC's ER wait times, while variable, tend to be in line with or slightly above the national average. Patients should be prepared for potential wait times, especially during peak hours.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital:** ER wait times at Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital are generally comparable to those at CRMC. Patients should call ahead or check online resources for the most current information.

**Specialty Centers and Cardiology Services**

The availability of specialized cardiology services is vital for hypertension management. These services include diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation.

**Cookeville Regional Medical Center:** CRMC has a well-established cardiology program with a team of cardiologists, including interventional cardiologists. They perform procedures like angioplasty and stenting, which are essential for treating hypertension-related heart disease. The hospital also offers cardiac rehabilitation programs to help patients recover and manage their condition.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also has a cardiology department. Patients should inquire about the specific services offered and the expertise of the cardiology team.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. It allows patients to monitor their blood pressure at home, receive remote consultations, and have their medications adjusted remotely.

**Cookeville Regional Medical Center:** CRMC has expanded its telehealth capabilities in recent years. Patients should inquire about the availability of telehealth services for hypertension management, including remote blood pressure monitoring and virtual consultations with cardiologists or primary care physicians.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also offers telehealth services. Patients should ask about the hospital's telehealth options for hypertension management.

**Other Important Considerations**

Beyond the factors already mentioned, several other aspects should be considered when choosing a hospital for hypertension care.

**Hospital Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like The Joint Commission or DNV GL Healthcare is a sign of quality and commitment to patient safety. Both CRMC and Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital are accredited.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:** Online reviews and patient satisfaction surveys can provide valuable insights into the patient experience at a hospital. Websites like Healthgrades and the hospital's own website can be good sources of information.

**Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital accepts your insurance plan.

**Access to Medications:** Verify the hospital's pharmacy has the medications you need.

**Care Coordination:** A well-coordinated care team, including cardiologists, primary care physicians, nurses, and other specialists, is essential for effective hypertension management.

**Specific Considerations for Livingston Residents**

Residents of Livingston, Tennessee, face unique challenges in accessing healthcare, including potential travel time to larger hospitals.

**Travel Time:** The travel time to Cookeville Regional Medical Center is approximately 30 minutes. Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital is about 40 minutes away. This travel time should be factored into decisions, especially during emergencies.

**Local Physician Availability:** While this review focuses on hospitals, the availability of primary care physicians and cardiologists in the Livingston area is also crucial. Patients should establish a relationship with a primary care physician who can monitor their blood pressure and refer them to specialists when needed.

**Community Resources:** Explore local community resources, such as support groups or educational programs, to help manage hypertension.

**Conclusion**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension care is a critical decision. For residents near ZIP code 38565, Cookeville Regional Medical Center and Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital are the primary options. CRMC has a more established cardiology program and a wider range of services. Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital is also a viable option. Patients should carefully consider the factors outlined in this review, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty services, telehealth capabilities, and their personal preferences, to make an informed decision. They should also consult with their primary care physician to determine the best course of action. Remember to confirm insurance coverage and access to medications at any chosen facility.