24236, Damascus, Virginia Hypertension Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Hypertension Score in 24236, Damascus, Virginia is 48 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Hypertension Haven: A Review of Hospitals Near ZIP Code 24236

Finding the right hospital for hypertension management is critical, especially in rural areas. ZIP code 24236, encompassing parts of Buchanan County, Virginia, presents a unique challenge: access to specialized care can be limited. This review will delve into the available options, focusing on their capabilities in managing hypertension, including CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialty centers, and telehealth offerings. We'll assess the strengths and weaknesses of the healthcare landscape, providing information to help individuals make informed decisions about their hypertension care.

**The Landscape: Challenges and Opportunities**

The region surrounding 24236 is characterized by its remote location and a population with potential health disparities. This often translates to fewer healthcare providers and longer travel times. Hypertension, a chronic condition, demands consistent monitoring and treatment, making access to quality care paramount. The availability of specialists, particularly cardiologists and nephrologists, is a key factor. Telehealth, therefore, becomes a crucial tool for bridging the geographical gap.

**Flagship Hospitals: A Closer Look**

While no hospital is directly within the 24236 ZIP code, residents likely rely on facilities in nearby cities like Bluefield, West Virginia, and Richlands, Virginia. These hospitals serve as regional hubs, offering a range of services.

**Princeton Community Hospital (Princeton, WV):** Located approximately 30 miles from 24236, Princeton Community Hospital is a prominent option. It is a 200-bed facility and is part of the WVU Medicine system. It has a 3-star CMS rating. This rating, while not the highest, indicates a generally acceptable level of quality. The hospital offers a cardiology department, which is crucial for hypertension management. They perform cardiac catheterizations, angioplasties, and other interventions. ER wait times are an important factor, and the most recent data available suggests an average wait time of around 30 minutes, which is relatively good. Telehealth services are also available, including cardiology consultations, which can be beneficial for patients in remote areas.

**Bluefield Regional Medical Center (Bluefield, WV):** This hospital, situated roughly 40 miles from 24236, is another major player in the region. It is a 180-bed facility. Bluefield Regional Medical Center has a 2-star CMS rating, which is lower than Princeton Community Hospital. This rating indicates potential areas for improvement in quality and patient safety. The hospital has a cardiology department and offers services such as cardiac stress tests and echocardiograms. While the hospital has a cardiology department, it is important to assess the availability of specialized hypertension management programs. ER wait times at Bluefield Regional Medical Center average around 45 minutes. Telehealth services are available, but the extent of cardiology-related offerings should be confirmed.

**Clinch Valley Health (Richlands, VA):** Approximately 20 miles from 24236, Clinch Valley Health is a smaller hospital serving the local community. It is a 170-bed facility. It is part of the Ballad Health system. CMS data for Clinch Valley Health is unavailable at this time. The hospital offers a cardiology department. The hospital may offer services such as echocardiograms and stress tests, but the availability of specialized hypertension programs should be investigated. ER wait times are around 30 minutes. Telehealth services are available, and the hospital's connection to the Ballad Health system may provide access to a wider range of specialists.

**Specialty Centers and Programs: Beyond the Basics**

Beyond general cardiology departments, specialized programs can significantly enhance hypertension management. These programs often involve a multidisciplinary team, including cardiologists, nephrologists, nurses, and dietitians. They provide comprehensive care, including medication management, lifestyle modifications, and patient education. Investigating the availability of these programs at the aforementioned hospitals is crucial.

**Telehealth: Bridging the Distance**

Telehealth plays a vital role in providing access to care in rural areas. It enables patients to consult with specialists remotely, reducing the need for travel. Cardiology telehealth programs can include virtual appointments for medication management, blood pressure monitoring, and lifestyle counseling. The availability of telehealth services varies between hospitals. Patients should inquire about the specific telehealth offerings, including the types of consultations available and the technology used.

**ER Wait Times: A Critical Factor**

ER wait times are a significant indicator of a hospital's efficiency and ability to handle urgent medical needs. Hypertension can lead to hypertensive crises, which require immediate attention. Shorter wait times are essential for ensuring timely treatment. The average ER wait times for the hospitals discussed range from 30 to 45 minutes. It is important to note that these are averages and can fluctuate depending on the time of day and the volume of patients.

**CMS Star Ratings: A Guide to Quality**

CMS star ratings provide a general overview of a hospital's quality of care. They are based on various factors, including patient outcomes, safety, and patient experience. While not the sole determinant of quality, CMS ratings offer a valuable starting point for evaluating hospitals. Higher star ratings generally indicate better performance. However, it's important to consider the limitations of these ratings and to supplement them with other information, such as personal experiences and recommendations from healthcare providers.

**Specific Considerations for 24236 Residents**

Residents of 24236 should prioritize hospitals with strong cardiology departments and, ideally, specialized hypertension management programs. Proximity is a factor, but the quality of care should be the primary consideration. Telehealth services can mitigate the challenges of distance, providing access to specialists who may not be readily available locally.

**Recommendations and Conclusion**

Based on the available information, Princeton Community Hospital appears to be a strong contender for hypertension care, given its 3-star CMS rating and cardiology services. Clinch Valley Health, closer to 24236, is another option, particularly if it has a robust cardiology department. Bluefield Regional Medical Center, while offering services, should be assessed carefully due to its lower CMS rating.

Residents should contact the hospitals directly to inquire about their specific hypertension management programs, the availability of specialists, and the extent of their telehealth offerings. They should also consider factors such as insurance coverage and personal preferences.

Choosing the right hospital for hypertension management is a critical decision. By carefully evaluating the available options and considering the factors discussed in this review, residents of 24236 can make informed choices and ensure they receive the best possible care for their condition. The ongoing monitoring of hospital performance, including CMS ratings and ER wait times, is essential for staying informed about the quality of care in the region.