23885, Sutherland, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 23885, Sutherland, Virginia is 46 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Score: Navigating Healthcare Near ZIP Code 23885

Living near ZIP code 23885, which encompasses the town of Wakefield, Virginia, means residents have access to a variety of healthcare options. Managing hypertension, or high blood pressure, requires consistent care, making proximity to quality medical facilities crucial. This review analyzes hospitals in the vicinity, focusing on factors relevant to hypertension management, including CMS star ratings, emergency room wait times, specialized services, and telehealth capabilities.

**Flagship Hospitals and CMS Star Ratings:**

The cornerstone of any healthcare assessment is the quality of care provided. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Hospital Compare website offers a valuable resource, assigning star ratings to hospitals based on various quality measures. However, it's important to note that the closest major hospital, **Bon Secours Maryview Medical Center** in Portsmouth, VA, is approximately a 45-minute drive. Maryview has a 3-star CMS rating, which is considered average. This rating reflects performance across various categories, including patient experience, safety of care, and readmission rates.

While Maryview is the closest major hospital, residents might also consider hospitals in the Richmond area, approximately a 1.5-hour drive. **VCU Health System** in Richmond, a large academic medical center, often receives higher ratings and is known for its specialized care. The CMS star rating for VCU is 4 stars. This can be a significant factor for patients with complex medical needs, including those with hypertension that requires specialized intervention.

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

In a hypertensive crisis, timely access to medical attention is paramount. Emergency room wait times are a critical indicator of a hospital's ability to provide prompt care. Data on ER wait times can fluctuate, but online resources like the **U.S. Department of Health & Human Services** and **ProPublica** provide some data. The wait times at Maryview are in line with the national average. However, as this data is not consistently updated, it is best to call the hospital directly for the most up-to-date information.

For residents who might consider the Richmond area, the ER wait times at VCU Health System are generally longer due to the higher patient volume and the complexity of cases. However, the availability of specialized services and the expertise of the medical staff often outweigh the longer wait times for patients with complex medical needs.

**Specialty Centers and Hypertension Management:**

Effective hypertension management often requires access to specialized care. This includes cardiology services, endocrinology, and nephrology. Maryview Medical Center has a cardiology department, providing services such as diagnostic testing, interventional procedures, and cardiac rehabilitation. However, the scope of its services might be limited compared to larger academic centers.

VCU Health System in Richmond boasts a comprehensive cardiology program, including specialized clinics for hypertension, heart failure, and other cardiovascular conditions. The presence of a dedicated hypertension clinic can be particularly beneficial, as it provides patients with access to a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including cardiologists, nephrologists, and registered dietitians.

**Telehealth Capabilities: Expanding Access to Care:**

Telehealth has become increasingly important, especially for managing chronic conditions like hypertension. Telehealth allows patients to remotely consult with their physicians, monitor their blood pressure, and receive medication management. Maryview Medical Center offers some telehealth services, including virtual visits for certain specialties.

VCU Health System has a more robust telehealth program, offering a wider range of virtual services, including remote blood pressure monitoring programs and virtual consultations with specialists. This can be particularly beneficial for residents in rural areas, reducing the need for frequent in-person visits.

**Additional Considerations for Hypertension Patients:**

Beyond the core services, several other factors are crucial for effective hypertension management. These include:

* **Pharmacy Services:** Access to a pharmacy within the hospital or nearby is essential for medication adherence. Both Maryview and VCU Health System have on-site pharmacies.
* **Dietary Counseling:** Registered dietitians play a vital role in helping patients manage their blood pressure through dietary modifications. Both hospitals offer dietary counseling services.
* **Cardiac Rehabilitation:** Cardiac rehabilitation programs can help patients recover from heart-related events and improve their overall cardiovascular health. Maryview has a cardiac rehabilitation program. VCU Health System also offers comprehensive cardiac rehabilitation services.
* **Patient Education:** Hospitals should provide patients with educational resources on hypertension management, including information on lifestyle modifications, medication adherence, and self-monitoring.

**Comparing and Contrasting the Options:**

Choosing the best hospital for hypertension management depends on individual needs and preferences. Maryview Medical Center offers a closer, more accessible option, with a 3-star CMS rating. Its cardiology services are adequate for many patients. However, its telehealth capabilities are more limited, and its specialty services may not be as comprehensive as those offered by larger academic centers.

VCU Health System in Richmond offers a higher level of specialized care, with a 4-star CMS rating. Its cardiology program is more extensive, and its telehealth capabilities are more robust. However, it is further away, and ER wait times may be longer.

**Making an Informed Decision:**

Residents near ZIP code 23885 should consider the following steps when choosing a hospital for hypertension management:

1. **Assess Individual Needs:** Determine the complexity of your hypertension and any other health conditions.
2. **Research Hospitals:** Utilize online resources, including CMS Hospital Compare, to research hospital ratings and services.
3. **Contact Hospitals Directly:** Call the hospitals to inquire about specific services, wait times, and telehealth options.
4. **Consult with Your Primary Care Physician:** Discuss your options with your doctor to get personalized recommendations.
5. **Consider Travel Time:** Factor in the time it takes to travel to each hospital, especially in an emergency.

**Conclusion:**

Managing hypertension effectively requires a proactive approach and access to quality healthcare. Residents near ZIP code 23885 have options, with Maryview Medical Center offering a convenient choice and VCU Health System providing a more comprehensive, albeit further away, option. By carefully evaluating their needs and researching the available resources, residents can make informed decisions that support their long-term health and well-being.