23696, Seaford, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 23696, Seaford, Virginia is 44 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

**Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare for High Blood Pressure Near Yorktown, VA (ZIP Code 23696)**

Living with hypertension, or high blood pressure, demands vigilant care. Access to quality healthcare, including prompt diagnosis, effective treatment, and ongoing monitoring, is paramount. This review focuses on hospitals near Yorktown, Virginia (ZIP Code 23696), evaluating their capabilities in managing hypertension, considering factors like CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth options.

**Understanding the Landscape: Healthcare Access in Yorktown**

Yorktown, nestled in the Hampton Roads region, benefits from a diverse healthcare ecosystem. Residents have access to both large, regional medical centers and smaller, community-focused facilities. The proximity to major military installations also influences healthcare availability, with access to military medical facilities potentially impacting choices.

**Riverside Regional Medical Center: A Regional Powerhouse**

Riverside Regional Medical Center, located in Newport News, VA, is a major player in the region. While not directly in Yorktown, its proximity makes it a primary choice for many residents. Riverside is a large, comprehensive hospital offering a wide range of services, including cardiology and vascular care, crucial for hypertension management.

Riverside boasts a four-star CMS rating, indicating above-average quality of care. This rating considers various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. The hospital’s cardiology department is well-equipped to diagnose and treat hypertension-related complications, such as heart disease and stroke.

Emergency room wait times at Riverside are generally reported to be within the regional average, though they can fluctuate depending on the time of day and patient volume. Information on specific wait times can be found on the hospital's website and third-party websites that monitor ER wait times. Riverside offers telehealth services, including virtual consultations with specialists, which can be beneficial for managing hypertension, especially for routine follow-up appointments and medication adjustments. The hospital's telehealth platform allows patients to connect with their providers remotely, improving access to care and potentially reducing the need for in-person visits.

**Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital: Community-Focused Care**

Bon Secours Mary Immaculate Hospital, also in Newport News, provides another option for residents. Mary Immaculate is known for its community-focused approach and offers a range of services, including cardiology.

Mary Immaculate has a CMS rating of three stars. The hospital's cardiology department provides services for hypertension management, including diagnostic testing, medication management, and lifestyle counseling.

Emergency room wait times at Mary Immaculate are typically within the regional average. The hospital offers telehealth services, providing virtual consultations and remote monitoring options, which can be valuable for patients with hypertension.

**Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center: A Local Option**

Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center, located closer to Yorktown, offers a more local option. This hospital provides a range of services, including cardiology, and is often a convenient choice for residents.

Sentara Williamsburg has a CMS rating of four stars. The hospital's cardiology services include diagnosis and treatment of hypertension and related conditions.

Emergency room wait times at Sentara Williamsburg are generally within the regional average. Telehealth services are available, offering virtual consultations and remote monitoring options.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management**

Beyond the general cardiology departments, the availability of specialized centers can significantly impact hypertension care. Look for hospitals with dedicated heart failure clinics, vascular centers, and stroke centers. These specialized units often have advanced diagnostic capabilities and a multidisciplinary team of specialists who can provide comprehensive care for complex hypertension cases.

**Telehealth: A Growing Resource**

Telehealth is becoming increasingly important in managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows for remote monitoring of blood pressure, virtual consultations with physicians, and medication management. Look for hospitals that offer robust telehealth programs, including secure patient portals, remote blood pressure monitoring devices, and virtual support groups.

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

Emergency room wait times can be a significant factor in healthcare decisions. While not directly related to hypertension management, long wait times can be stressful and delay critical care, especially in cases of hypertensive crisis. Before choosing a hospital, check the average ER wait times, which are often available on hospital websites or third-party websites.

**Finding the Right Fit: Key Considerations**

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management involves several factors:

* **CMS Star Rating:** Provides a general indication of quality of care.
* **Cardiology Department:** Look for experienced cardiologists and a comprehensive range of services.
* **Specialty Centers:** Consider hospitals with dedicated heart failure clinics, vascular centers, and stroke centers.
* **Telehealth Options:** Assess the availability of virtual consultations, remote monitoring, and patient portals.
* **Emergency Room Wait Times:** Evaluate the average wait times for emergency care.
* **Insurance Coverage:** Ensure the hospital and its providers are in your insurance network.
* **Patient Reviews and Ratings:** Research patient experiences and satisfaction levels.

**Beyond the Hospital: Primary Care and Specialists**

While hospitals are crucial for acute care and specialized treatments, managing hypertension often involves ongoing care from primary care physicians (PCPs). PCPs play a vital role in monitoring blood pressure, prescribing medications, and providing lifestyle counseling. In some cases, patients may be referred to specialists, such as cardiologists or nephrologists, for more specialized care.

**The Importance of Lifestyle Management**

Lifestyle modifications are essential for managing hypertension. These include:

* **Diet:** Following a heart-healthy diet, such as the DASH diet, which is low in sodium, saturated fat, and cholesterol.
* **Exercise:** Engaging in regular physical activity, such as brisk walking, for at least 30 minutes most days of the week.
* **Weight Management:** Maintaining a healthy weight.
* **Smoking Cessation:** Quitting smoking.
* **Alcohol Consumption:** Limiting alcohol intake.
* **Stress Management:** Practicing stress-reducing techniques, such as yoga or meditation.

**Conclusion: Navigating Hypertension Care in Yorktown**

Residents of Yorktown (ZIP Code 23696) have access to a range of hospitals offering hypertension management services. Riverside Regional Medical Center and Sentara Williamsburg Regional Medical Center stand out as primary choices, each with its own strengths. The best hospital for you will depend on your individual needs, insurance coverage, and preferences. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, you can make an informed decision and partner with a healthcare provider to effectively manage your hypertension and improve your overall health. Remember to consult with your primary care physician to develop a personalized hypertension management plan.