38568, Hilham, Tennessee Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 38568, Hilham, Tennessee is 39 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: A Review of Hospitals Near Cookeville, TN (ZIP Code 38568)**

Navigating healthcare, especially when managing a condition like hypertension, requires informed decisions. This review analyzes hospitals within a reasonable radius of Cookeville, Tennessee (ZIP Code 38568), focusing on factors crucial for hypertensive patients: quality of care, accessibility, and specialized services. This is not medical advice; consult your physician for personalized recommendations.

**Understanding the Landscape: Key Considerations**

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands consistent monitoring and management. The ideal hospital for a hypertensive patient offers rapid access to care in emergencies, a strong cardiology department, and a commitment to preventative measures. This review considers these elements, along with publicly available data.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings**

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) provides a star rating system, offering a snapshot of hospital performance. While not the sole determinant of quality, CMS ratings are a valuable starting point.

**Cookeville Regional Medical Center (CRMC):** Located directly in Cookeville, CRMC is the most immediate option. CRMC is a regional hub, offering a broad range of services. Publicly available CMS data shows CRMC's star rating is a 3-star hospital. While the CMS rating is a useful metric, it is not the only one to consider. CRMC has a comprehensive cardiology department.

**Other Hospitals within Reach**

Beyond Cookeville, residents may consider hospitals in neighboring cities, depending on travel time and specific needs.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital (Sparta, TN):** Located approximately 30 miles south of Cookeville, this hospital is another option. Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital is part of the Ascension Health system. Publicly available CMS data shows Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital's star rating is a 3-star hospital.

**Emergency Room Wait Times: A Critical Metric**

For hypertensive patients, timely access to emergency care can be life-saving. Prolonged wait times can exacerbate complications. Publicly available data on ER wait times is often tracked and reported.

**CRMC ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at CRMC fluctuate. Data from various sources indicates that wait times can vary, but generally, patients should expect to be seen within a reasonable timeframe. It is important to note that wait times are dynamic and influenced by factors like the time of day and the volume of patients.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital ER Wait Times:** ER wait times at Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital are similar to those at CRMC.

**Cardiology Departments: Expertise in Hypertension**

The strength of a hospital's cardiology department is paramount for hypertensive patients. Look for board-certified cardiologists, advanced diagnostic capabilities, and a commitment to evidence-based treatment.

**CRMC Cardiology:** CRMC's cardiology department offers a full spectrum of services, including diagnostic testing (echocardiograms, stress tests), interventional procedures (angioplasty, stenting), and cardiac rehabilitation programs. The hospital employs cardiologists specializing in various areas.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Cardiology:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also has a cardiology department.

**Specialty Centers and Programs**

Beyond general cardiology, specialized programs can enhance care. Look for hospitals with dedicated hypertension clinics, cardiac rehabilitation programs, and access to specialized expertise.

**CRMC Specialty Programs:** CRMC offers a cardiac rehabilitation program. The hospital also has a diabetes education center, which is relevant because of the frequent comorbidity of hypertension and diabetes.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Specialty Programs:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital has a cardiac rehabilitation program.

**Telehealth and Remote Monitoring: Expanding Access**

Telehealth has revolutionized healthcare delivery, especially for chronic conditions like hypertension. Remote monitoring allows physicians to track patients' blood pressure readings and adjust treatment plans remotely.

**CRMC Telehealth:** CRMC offers telehealth services, including remote monitoring for certain conditions. This can improve patient compliance and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Telehealth:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also has telehealth capabilities, offering remote monitoring and virtual consultations.

**Hospital Staffing and Resources**

Adequate staffing levels are crucial for delivering quality care. Consider the nurse-to-patient ratio, the availability of specialized staff (e.g., certified diabetes educators, registered dietitians), and the hospital's overall resources.

**CRMC Staffing:** CRMC employs a large staff.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Staffing:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also has a dedicated staff.

**Patient Satisfaction and Reviews**

Patient reviews offer valuable insights into the patient experience. Websites like Healthgrades and Google Reviews provide feedback on various aspects of care, including physician communication, wait times, and overall satisfaction.

**CRMC Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews for CRMC are mixed, with some patients praising the care they received and others expressing concerns about wait times or communication.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Patient Reviews:** Patient reviews for Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital are also mixed.

**Cost of Care and Insurance Coverage**

Healthcare costs vary significantly. Before seeking care, verify your insurance coverage and understand the hospital's pricing policies.

**CRMC Cost of Care:** CRMC accepts a wide range of insurance plans.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Cost of Care:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital accepts a variety of insurance plans.

**Accessibility and Location**

Consider the hospital's location and accessibility. Factors like traffic, parking, and public transportation options can impact your ability to access care.

**CRMC Accessibility:** CRMC is located in Cookeville, offering easy access for residents of the city and surrounding areas.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Accessibility:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital is located in Sparta, which is a bit further for Cookeville residents.

**Preventive Care and Education**

A hospital's commitment to preventive care and patient education is essential for managing hypertension. Look for programs that promote healthy lifestyles, provide education on blood pressure management, and offer screenings for related conditions.

**CRMC Preventive Care:** CRMC offers preventive care services, including health screenings and educational programs.

**Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital Preventive Care:** Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital also emphasizes preventive care.

**Conclusion: Making an Informed Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management requires careful consideration. While CRMC is the most immediate option, Saint Thomas Highlands Hospital offers another choice. Evaluate the factors discussed above – CMS star ratings, ER wait times, cardiology expertise, telehealth capabilities, patient reviews, and accessibility – to make an informed decision that aligns with your individual needs and preferences. Remember to consult with your physician for personalized recommendations.