23456, Virginia Beach, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 23456, Virginia Beach, Virginia is 34 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Havens: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 23456

Navigating the healthcare landscape can be daunting, especially when facing a chronic condition like hypertension. This review provides a fact-rich overview of hospitals near ZIP code 23456 (Virginia Beach, VA), focusing on their capabilities in managing hypertension, including key metrics like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth offerings. The goal is to arm residents with the information needed to make informed decisions about their cardiovascular health.

**Understanding the Landscape**

The Hampton Roads area, encompassing Virginia Beach, offers a diverse range of healthcare providers. Identifying the best options for hypertension management requires a nuanced approach, considering factors beyond just proximity. This review delves into the specific strengths and weaknesses of several prominent hospitals, providing a comparative analysis to aid in decision-making.

**Sentara Healthcare: A Dominant Presence**

Sentara Healthcare is a significant player in the region, with several hospitals within a reasonable distance of 23456. Their commitment to cardiovascular care is evident in their investments in specialized centers and technology.

**Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital:** This hospital, located within the ZIP code, is a flagship facility for Sentara. It boasts a respectable 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), indicating a good overall quality of care. While not a perfect score, it suggests a commitment to patient safety and positive outcomes. Emergency room wait times are a critical factor, and recent data suggests average wait times at Sentara Virginia Beach General are around 30-45 minutes. However, these times can fluctuate significantly depending on the day and time of arrival. The hospital offers a comprehensive cardiology program, including advanced diagnostic tools and interventional procedures. They also provide telehealth services, allowing for remote consultations and follow-up appointments, which can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management.

**Sentara Princess Anne Hospital:** Another Sentara facility, Princess Anne Hospital, also serves the 23456 area. While its CMS star rating is currently unavailable, the hospital offers a robust cardiology department and is known for its focus on patient-centered care. ER wait times are generally comparable to Virginia Beach General, averaging around 30-45 minutes. Princess Anne Hospital has expanded its telehealth offerings in recent years, providing increased access to specialists and remote monitoring capabilities.

**Sentara Leigh Hospital:** Located slightly further afield, Sentara Leigh Hospital provides another option for residents in the area. This hospital also has a 4-star CMS rating. The cardiology department provides a wide range of services, including diagnostic testing and treatment options for hypertension. ER wait times at Sentara Leigh are typically in the 30-45 minute range. Telehealth services are available, although the specific scope of these services may vary.

**Bon Secours Health System: A Competitor in the Market**

Bon Secours Health System also has a presence in the region, offering another choice for patients.

**Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center:** Located near the 23456 area, Maryview Medical Center is a well-regarded hospital. The hospital’s CMS star rating is currently unavailable. The hospital has a dedicated cardiology department, providing comprehensive care for patients with hypertension and other cardiovascular conditions. ER wait times can vary, but are generally in the 30-60 minute range. Maryview Medical Center is actively expanding its telehealth offerings, with a focus on remote monitoring and virtual consultations.

**Specialized Care and Centers of Excellence**

Beyond general cardiology departments, some hospitals offer specialized centers that may be particularly beneficial for patients with complex hypertension or related conditions.

**Cardiac Catheterization Labs:** All the hospitals mentioned above have cardiac catheterization labs, which are essential for diagnosing and treating cardiovascular conditions, including those related to hypertension. These labs perform procedures like angioplasty and stenting, which can be crucial for managing complications of high blood pressure.

**Stroke Centers:** Hypertension is a major risk factor for stroke. All of the hospitals mentioned have stroke centers, equipped to rapidly diagnose and treat stroke patients. These centers are staffed by specialized teams of neurologists, nurses, and other healthcare professionals.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in healthcare, particularly for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows patients to connect with their doctors remotely, through video conferencing, phone calls, or secure messaging.

**Sentara's Telehealth Initiatives:** Sentara Healthcare has made significant investments in telehealth. They offer a range of services, including virtual consultations, remote patient monitoring, and medication management. This can be particularly helpful for patients who live far from the hospital or who have difficulty traveling.

**Bon Secours' Telehealth Programs:** Bon Secours is also expanding its telehealth offerings, with a focus on providing convenient access to care. Their programs include virtual visits, remote monitoring, and educational resources.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Consideration**

Emergency room wait times are a crucial factor to consider, especially when dealing with a potential hypertensive crisis. The hospitals in the area generally have wait times ranging from 30 to 60 minutes, but these times can fluctuate. Checking real-time wait times online or calling the hospital before going to the ER is always a good idea.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Snapshot of Quality**

The CMS star ratings provide a valuable snapshot of a hospital's overall quality of care. These ratings are based on a variety of factors, including patient safety, readmission rates, and patient satisfaction. While not a perfect measure, they can be a helpful tool for comparing hospitals.

**Patient Reviews and Experiences**

Beyond the metrics, patient reviews and experiences can offer valuable insights. Online platforms like Healthgrades, Vitals, and Google Reviews provide a space for patients to share their experiences. Reading these reviews can provide a more personal perspective on the quality of care, the responsiveness of staff, and the overall patient experience.

**Making the Right Choice**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a personal decision. Residents of ZIP code 23456 have several excellent options.

**Recommendations:**

* **For convenience and comprehensive care:** Sentara Virginia Beach General Hospital is a strong contender, offering a good balance of services and proximity.
* **For a focus on patient-centered care:** Sentara Princess Anne Hospital could be a good choice.
* **For those seeking a wider range of options:** Consider exploring the telehealth offerings of both Sentara and Bon Secours.
* **Always check current ER wait times before going to the emergency room.**

**Conclusion**

Managing hypertension requires a proactive approach, including regular checkups, medication adherence, and lifestyle modifications. The hospitals near ZIP code 23456 offer a range of resources to support patients in their journey to better cardiovascular health. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, residents can make informed decisions and access the care they need to live longer, healthier lives. Remember to consult with your primary care physician for personalized recommendations and treatment plans.