38567, Hickman, Tennessee Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 38567, Hickman, Tennessee is 51 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near Livingston, TN (ZIP Code 38567)**

Navigating the healthcare landscape, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires careful consideration of available resources. This review focuses on hospitals within a reasonable radius of Livingston, Tennessee (ZIP code 38567), assessing their capabilities in treating hypertension and related cardiovascular issues. The evaluation incorporates publicly available data, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty center availability, and telehealth offerings, to provide a comprehensive overview for patients seeking the best possible care.

**Regional Overview and Key Players**

The immediate vicinity of Livingston, TN, is primarily served by smaller community hospitals and regional healthcare systems. Access to specialized cardiovascular care, however, may necessitate travel to larger facilities in nearby cities. This review will consider hospitals within a 50-75 mile radius, acknowledging the reality of patient travel for specialized treatment.

**Cookeville Regional Medical Center (Cookeville, TN)**

Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC), located approximately 30 miles west of Livingston, is a major player in the region's healthcare network. CRMC is a designated Level II Trauma Center, indicating its capacity to handle a wide range of medical emergencies, including those related to hypertension complications like stroke and heart attack. While specific CMS star ratings fluctuate, CRMC generally maintains a rating reflecting good overall quality. It's crucial to check the most recent CMS data for the most current rating.

CRMC's cardiovascular services are a significant strength. The hospital boasts a dedicated cardiology department with board-certified cardiologists. They offer a comprehensive range of diagnostic and interventional procedures, including cardiac catheterization, angioplasty, and pacemaker implantation. This is particularly relevant for hypertension patients who may develop related heart conditions. CRMC also provides cardiac rehabilitation programs, essential for long-term management and recovery after cardiac events.

ER wait times at CRMC are variable. Publicly available data often shows wait times that are comparable to the national average. However, it's essential to recognize that ER wait times can fluctuate significantly depending on the time of day, day of the week, and the volume of patients. Patients experiencing severe hypertension-related symptoms should always seek immediate medical attention, regardless of reported wait times.

CRMC has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years. These services can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management, allowing patients to remotely monitor their blood pressure, consult with their physicians, and receive medication adjustments. The availability and scope of telehealth services should be confirmed directly with CRMC.

**Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Nashville, TN)**

While further afield (approximately 80 miles west of Livingston), Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) in Nashville represents a flagship facility with exceptional cardiovascular expertise. VUMC consistently receives high CMS star ratings, reflecting its commitment to quality and patient safety.

VUMC's cardiology program is nationally recognized. They offer cutting-edge treatments and a wide range of specialized services, including advanced cardiac imaging, electrophysiology, and heart failure management. This level of expertise is invaluable for patients with complex hypertension cases or those who have developed serious cardiovascular complications.

VUMC's ER typically experiences longer wait times than smaller community hospitals due to its high patient volume and complexity of cases. However, VUMC's ER is equipped to handle the most critical emergencies, including those related to hypertensive crises. Patients requiring immediate, specialized care may find the extended travel time justified by the level of expertise available.

VUMC is a leader in telehealth. They offer extensive telehealth programs, including remote monitoring for patients with chronic conditions like hypertension. These programs can provide patients with convenient access to their healthcare providers, improve medication adherence, and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Saint Thomas Health (Nashville, TN)**

Saint Thomas Health, a network of hospitals within the Ascension system, also provides significant healthcare resources in the Nashville area. Several Saint Thomas hospitals are within a reasonable driving distance from Livingston. The specific CMS star ratings vary between Saint Thomas facilities, so it is important to check the ratings for each individual hospital within the network.

Saint Thomas Health offers robust cardiovascular services, including cardiology and cardiac surgery. They have a network of cardiologists and access to advanced diagnostic and interventional procedures. The specific services and specialties offered can vary between the different Saint Thomas hospitals, so patients should research the specific hospital that best meets their needs.

ER wait times at Saint Thomas hospitals are generally competitive with other hospitals in the Nashville area. The availability of telehealth services varies between the different Saint Thomas hospitals. Patients should confirm the availability of telehealth programs with their physician.

**Other Considerations**

**Specialty Centers and Programs:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, patients should inquire about specialized programs within the region. Some hospitals may have dedicated hypertension clinics or programs focused on cardiovascular risk reduction. These programs often involve a multidisciplinary team of healthcare professionals, including cardiologists, nurses, dietitians, and pharmacists, to provide comprehensive care.

**Access to Specialists:**

The availability of specialists, such as cardiologists, nephrologists (kidney specialists), and endocrinologists (hormone specialists), is crucial for managing hypertension and its related complications. Patients should confirm the availability of these specialists at the hospitals they are considering.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring:**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in hypertension management. Remote blood pressure monitoring, virtual consultations, and medication management through telehealth platforms can improve patient outcomes and reduce the burden of frequent in-person visits. Patients should inquire about the telehealth capabilities of the hospitals and healthcare providers they are considering.

**Patient Reviews and Satisfaction:**

While not a definitive measure of quality, patient reviews and satisfaction scores can provide valuable insights into the patient experience. Patients should research online reviews and seek recommendations from their primary care physicians or other trusted sources.

**Conclusion**

The healthcare landscape near Livingston, TN, offers a range of options for patients managing hypertension. Cookeville Regional Medical Center provides a solid foundation of care, while Vanderbilt University Medical Center and Saint Thomas Health, located in Nashville, offer access to specialized cardiovascular expertise. Patients should carefully consider their individual needs, the severity of their condition, and the availability of specialized services when choosing a hospital. Thorough research, including checking CMS star ratings, ER wait times, and telehealth offerings, is essential for making informed decisions and ensuring access to the best possible care for hypertension management. The information provided in this review is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Patients should always consult with their physician to determine the best course of treatment for their individual needs.