23608, Newport News, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 23608, Newport News, Virginia is 31 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Hotspots: A Deep Dive into Hospitals Near 23608

Finding the right hospital when managing hypertension is crucial. Near the 23608 ZIP code, which encompasses parts of Newport News, Virginia, several healthcare facilities offer varying levels of care for this pervasive condition. This review provides a fact-rich overview of the key players, focusing on metrics relevant to hypertension management, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: The Flagship**

Riverside Regional Medical Center (RRMC), a flagship hospital within the Riverside Health System, stands as a prominent healthcare provider near 23608. RRMC boasts a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating, while not the highest possible, indicates a generally good performance across various quality measures, including those related to heart care and stroke management, which are often intertwined with hypertension treatment.

RRMC has a dedicated cardiology department, offering a range of services from diagnostic testing to interventional procedures. While specific data on hypertension-related outcomes is not always publicly available, the hospital’s overall cardiac care reputation suggests a focus on managing cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension. Riverside Health System also offers a robust telehealth program, which can be particularly beneficial for hypertension management. Telehealth visits allow patients to remotely monitor blood pressure, receive medication adjustments, and consult with healthcare providers, potentially improving adherence to treatment plans.

**Sentara CarePlex Hospital: Another Option**

Sentara CarePlex Hospital, located in Hampton, Virginia, is another hospital option within a reasonable distance of the 23608 ZIP code. Sentara CarePlex is a large, multi-specialty hospital. Sentara does not have a CMS star rating. Sentara CarePlex’s heart program offers a range of services, including cardiology consultations, diagnostic testing, and interventional procedures. Sentara also has a focus on preventative care, which is essential for managing hypertension.

**Emergency Room Dynamics**

Emergency room wait times are a critical factor for anyone experiencing a hypertensive crisis or related symptoms. While specific real-time wait times fluctuate, it's crucial to be aware of general trends. Both Riverside Regional Medical Center and Sentara CarePlex Hospital typically have moderate ER wait times. It's always advisable to check current wait times through online portals or by calling the hospital before heading to the ER.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Focus**

Beyond general cardiology departments, some hospitals offer specialized centers that may be particularly relevant for hypertension management. While neither Riverside Regional Medical Center nor Sentara CarePlex Hospital has a dedicated "hypertension center" in the strictest sense, their cardiology departments and associated clinics often provide comprehensive care for patients with hypertension. These services can include medication management, lifestyle counseling, and monitoring of related conditions.

**Telehealth: A Growing Advantage**

Telehealth has become increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Riverside Health System, with its telehealth platform, provides patients with convenient access to care. This can include virtual consultations with cardiologists or primary care physicians, remote blood pressure monitoring, and medication refills. Telehealth can improve patient adherence to treatment plans and reduce the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Data Specifics**

Specific data on hypertension-related outcomes, such as blood pressure control rates or readmission rates for hypertension-related complications, is not always readily available to the public. However, hospitals are required to report certain quality metrics to CMS, which are then used to calculate star ratings. The CMS website (Medicare.gov) is a valuable resource for comparing hospital performance on various quality measures.

**Considerations for Choosing a Hospital**

When selecting a hospital for hypertension care, several factors should be considered:

* **CMS Star Rating:** Provides a general overview of hospital quality.
* **Cardiology Department Reputation:** Look for hospitals with well-regarded cardiology departments and experienced cardiologists.
* **Telehealth Capabilities:** Telehealth can improve convenience and access to care.
* **Proximity and Accessibility:** Consider the hospital's location and ease of access.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Factor in ER wait times, especially if you need immediate care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Verify that the hospital accepts your insurance plan.
* **Patient Reviews:** Read online reviews to get insights into patient experiences.

**Beyond the Major Hospitals**

Smaller clinics and outpatient centers near 23608 also play a role in hypertension management. These facilities may offer primary care services, medication management, and lifestyle counseling. It's essential to consider these options as part of a comprehensive care plan.

**Conclusion**

For individuals residing near the 23608 ZIP code, Riverside Regional Medical Center and Sentara CarePlex Hospital represent the primary choices for hypertension care. Riverside, with its four-star CMS rating and robust telehealth program, offers a comprehensive approach. Sentara CarePlex Hospital provides another option with its cardiology department and focus on preventative care. When choosing a hospital, consider the factors outlined above, including CMS ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth capabilities, to make an informed decision that best suits your individual needs. Remember to consult with your primary care physician or cardiologist to determine the most appropriate care plan for your specific situation.